Advice: Kids learn from what you do, not what you say

Here’s some great advice from friend Laina – who has personally manufactured two fine offspring of her very own, so you know she knows what she’s talking about.

It doesn’t matter what you say. Kids only learn from what you do.

You watch TV? Good luck following the American Academy of Pediatrics advice to keep them away from TV until age two.

You like healthy food? With a few small battles in the toddler years, your offspring will probably grow up eating their veggies most of the time.

Same thing with naps and bedtime. If you believe in sleep and take it seriously enough to put them in a quiet, dark place at more or less the same time(s) every day, they will learn to nap. And well-rested kids are happier kids.

You know, I’d take this farther and come out and say that “walk the walk” is good advice for more than just parenting. Know where you stand and live your ideals.

Have something to add? Currently seeking words of wisdom about work, parenting, home maintenance, cooking, relationships… Tell me what you know!

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2 Responses to “Advice: Kids learn from what you do, not what you say”

  1. Laina knows what she is talking about. Kids observe their parents and other adults in their lives. Modeling your values goes so much further than lecturing to your kids. Encouraging them to change their behaviors and showing them how to make these changes is so important!

  2. I agree with Laina too…but remember…kids repeat what you “say”. Good habits all around.

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