Here are a few tips on how you can be a good role model for your children

• Have manners and be considerate- All parents teach their kids to say “thank you” when they are given something but there is so much more to having good manners than that. Holding doors for the elderly, standing to let someone sit on the bus or picking up an item should someone have dropped it accidentally are all things your kids need to see to learn how to be mannerly and considerate.
• Be non-judgemental and respectful- Along with good manners a parent should show their child to not judge others by their job, their home or the car that they are driving. A child should know that the homeless exist and respect them though they may not have the things we all take for granted. Treat people how you would like to be treated and remember you don’t know anyone’s hidden battles so a kind word or a nod of acknowledgement go a long way.
• Help others- Be the kind of person who stops to help, the person who visits a sick relative though you are busy and be the person who will brush your needs aside to help a loved one. Showing your kids kindness and how helping is one of the nicest things you can do will instil a good lesson in your child and one that they will keep for life hopefully.
• Work hard- No one gets a nice house, a good job or a family without working hard for it and in life hard work equals opportunities and happiness. Showing your kids your work ethic mixed with your drive to keep the family home happy and well will stay with your kids forever and as they get older they will appreciate the times you brought them to matches while heading to work and still smiling for it.
• Keep fit and eat well- If your kids watch you eating well and keeping fit they will invariably copy and these are building blocks that will set them up for life. A healthy diet and an active lifestyle will promote a healthier future kiddie and this is vital.
• Show your emotions- Don’t be scared of crying or showing your child when you are sad because (in life) sadness is inevitable and unavoidable. Being honest with your emotions will encourage your child to open up and be truthful when things are getting them down rather than languishing in it and letting it fester.
• Take care of relationships- Every relationship you have is special whether it is a father/daughter or a mother/son each one should be protected and cared for. It is easy to forget people when everyone is so busy but make a point of having everyone around the table to discuss their days and be a family.