Does either of the following expressions describe your approach to teaching your children? “Do as I say, not as I do.” Or, “Monkey see, monkey do.”
Neither is totally effective. A better saying would be— “Learn from what I teach you, and watch what I do.”
Children learn best when words of instruction are reinforced by the examples they see. They become confused when what they observe in your behavior is different from your words. So, what are your children hearing in your words; and what are they seeing in your behavior?
Yes No Do your children hear you talk about your love for Jesus?
Yes No Do they see you pray and read the Bible?
Yes No Do they hear you talk about God’s blessings to the family?
Yes No Do they see an accepting, thankful attitude?
Yes No Are they taught why going to church is important?
Yes No Do they observe you taking an active part in worship?
Yes No Do they hear you singing?
Yes No Do you teach them to bring an offering to God?
Yes No Do they see you setting aside money for an offering?
Yes No Do you instruct your children to be kind and caring to all?
Yes No Do they see you show respect for everyone?
Yes No Do they observe love being exchanged between parents?
Yes No Are your children taught the value of work?
Yes No Do they see you doing things to help others?
Yes No Do they see you supporting the members of your family?
Yes No Are they taught to take responsibility for their actions?
Yes No Have they seen you admit to a wrong word or action?
Yes No Have they seen you apologize for doing wrong?
Yes No Are they taught to be polite?
Yes No Do they hear you say please and thank you?
Yes No Do they hear you say I’m sorry or I forgive you?
Yes No Do you teach your children to talk about their frustrations?
Yes No Do they see you in control of your actions and emotions?
By John Juern, from Patient Parenting © 2006 Northwestern Publishing House. All rights reserved.
Image credit: “Resolutions.” by MT 23 is licensed under CC BY 2.0.