Alright, let’s have a chinwag about something we all know but might not always think about: our kids are like little sponges, soaking up everything we do. Whether it’s how we handle stress, solve problems, or even how we talk to the dog, they’re watching. And guess what? They’re copying us. So, let’s take a moment to think about what we’re teaching them, shall we?

The Power of Modeling Behaviour
You’ve probably heard the phrase, “Do as I say, not as I do.” Well, spoiler alert: that doesn’t work. Kids learn more from what we do than what we say. If you’re calm and patient, they’ll pick up on that. If you’re shouting like you’re auditioning for a soap opera, well, you can guess what they’ll do next time they’re frustrated. The lesson is in the method, not the message. So, what are you modelling today?

Problem-Solving Pros
When you sit down with your little one to figure out why the Lego tower keeps collapsing, you’re not just building a tower—you’re teaching them how to solve problems. It’s like being a detective, but with more sticky fingers and fewer magnifying glasses. By involving them in the process, you’re showing them that challenges can be tackled with a bit of thought and teamwork.

Connection is Key
Ever noticed how your child lights up when you really listen to them? That’s because connection matters. When you take the time to connect, whether it’s through a bedtime story or a chat about their day, you’re teaching them how to connect with others. It’s like giving them a social superpower, one cuddle at a time.

Respect Begets Respect
Respect isn’t just about saying “please” and “thank you” (though that’s a good start). It’s about how you treat others, including your kids. When you show them respect, they learn to respect others. It’s a bit like a boomerang—what you throw out there comes back to you. So, let’s make sure we’re throwing out the good stuff, yeah?

The Not-So-Great Stuff
Now, let’s talk about the less glamorous side of parenting. Yelling, hitting, threatening—these are all things we might do in moments of frustration, but they’re also things we don’t want our kids to copy. If you yell, they’ll yell. If you hit, they’ll hit. It’s a tough pill to swallow, but it’s true. The good news? Every day is a new chance to do better.

Empathy: The Secret Sauce
Empathy is like the secret sauce of parenting. When you show empathy, you’re teaching your kids to understand and care about others’ feelings. It’s like giving them a heart upgrade. So, next time they’re upset, try seeing things from their perspective. It might just make all the difference.

Parenting isn’t easy, and none of us are perfect. But by being mindful of our actions, we can help our kids grow into kind, respectful, and empathetic little humans. So, let’s keep modelling the behaviour we want to see, one day at a time. And remember, it’s okay to have a cuppa and a laugh along the way.