One of the ways your child shows his love for you is by imitating you. This also is one of the ways he learns how to behave, develop new skills and take care of himself. From his earliest moments he watches you closely and patterns his own behavior and beliefs after yours. Your examples become permanent images, which will shape his attitudes and actions for the rest of his life. Setting a good example for your child means being responsible, loving and consistent not only with him but with all members of the family. The way you conduct your marriage, for example, teaches your child about male and female roles and how he’s “supposed” to behave as he gets older. Show your affection and take time for yourselves as a couple. If your child sees his parents communicating openly, cooperating and sharing household responsibilities, he’ll bring these skills to his own relationship.
Setting good examples also means taking care of yourself. As an eager, well-meaning parent, it’s easy to concentrate so hard on your family that you lose sight of your own needs. That’s a big mistake. Your child depends on you to be physically and emotionally healthy, and he looks to you to show him how to keep himself healthy. By taking care of yourself, you express your self-esteem, which is important for both you and your child. Getting a sitter and resting when you’re overtired or ill teaches your child that you respect yourself and your needs. Setting aside time and energy for your own work or hobbies teaches your child that you value certain skills and interests and are willing to pursue them. Ultimately, he will pattern some of his own habits after yours, so the healthier and happier you keep yourself, the better it will be for both of you.
