Sometimes, the weight of responsibility and the pressure to be perfect can be overwhelming. I’ve felt like I’m failing, like I’m not doing enough. But then I see my child’s smile, and it all melts away.
Some children see their parents as role models because of what they see them do, which they love and want to become like when they grow up. That’s great! However, how do you feel when your child calls another parent their role model or emulates their behaviour? It might sting a bit, but it’s a wake-up call for us as parents.
Let’s ask ourselves the following probing questions:
Do we create a safe space for our children to express themselves freely?
-Are we active listeners when they need us?
Do we validate and acknowledge their feelings, even when they’re difficult?
Do we spend quality time with them, engaging in activities they love?
Most importantly, do we model positive behaviour for them to learn from?
I remember promising my last child a trip to the village, which didn’t happen. The disappointment in his eyes still haunts me. When we promise our children something we can’t deliver, it can be damaging. Imagine being in their shoes when they’re disappointed. It’s not too late to make amends.
Parenting is a journey, and it’s okay to make mistakes. What’s important is that we learn from them and grow alongside our children. By being vulnerable, honest, and compassionate, we can raise children who will thrive in life.
As parents, modeling honest and moral behaviour can have a lasting impact on our children. We should strive for integrity, even when it’s challenging, and acknowledge and learn from our mistakes.
“Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.” – Proverbs 10:9
By acknowledging our mistakes, learning from them, and modeling positive behaviour, we can raise confident, compassionate, and resilient children who will thrive in life.
By Florence Ubajekwe, Social Worker, Social Advocate and Child Expert.
