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Ten ways to be a great role model

The National PTA developed these ten suggestions for being the kind of role model you want your children to emulate.

1. Share your values with your children. Don't assume your children know where you stand on drug use, sexual behavior and other issues. (In a recent survey, the number-one reason teens gave for not using drugs is not wanting to disappoint their parents.) Talk about these topics often, as well as the importance of honesty, reliability and responsibility.
2. Demonstrate your own sense of self-respect and self-esteem. Take care of yourself by following a healthful diet, exercising regularly and striving for balance between work and relaxation.
3. Show that you value your independence. Let your children know—by your words and your actions—that you don't “follow the crowd” but have enough confidence to make your own decisions.
4. Set a good example when using medications. Be cautious about how you use prescription drugs and even over-the-counter medications. Show that you can deal with some tension or discomfort without turning to chemical remedies.
5. If you drink alcohol, demonstrate responsibility. Use alcohol in moderation and avoid using excuses for drinking, like having a rough day. Don't drive after drinking. Children will tend to adopt their parents' drinking habits as adults.
6. Set a good example for dealing with stress. If you have stress or conflict in your life, talk about it honestly with your children. They need to know that such struggles are a natural part of life and it's how you deal with them that's important.
7. Share your successes—and failures—with your children. Whether you're setting goals for change such as losing weight or giving up smoking, or fall short of your own standards or values on occasion, it's important to let children know when you've failed or made a mistake. It will teach them that failures are opportunities for learning—and it may make it easier for them to tell you when they've made a mistake.
8. Show that you love and value each member of your family. Let children know that you value them for who they are and that spending time together is an important priority. Plan ahead for special outings and establish holiday traditions, as well as making time for spur-of-the-moment activities.
9. Discuss how the media portray alcohol and drugs, violence and sex. As parents, your values must contend with powerful competition in the form of TV, music, movies and advertising. Know what your children are reading, viewing and listening to and let them know what you think about the messages and images conveyed.
10. Take an interest in your community, your schools and other people. Not everyone has time or money to donate to good causes, but there are small acts of caring that can be part of your family's life. Doing a favor for a neighbor, taking a stray animal to a shelter, helping with a holiday food drive not only bring you closer as a family, but help your children grow up to value kindness and caring.

Call your EAP at (414) 257-2124 or 1-800-236-3231.