William Lopez wrote an article for the AllPsych Journal in May, 2004 titled, “Successful Parenting Skills that Shape Children’s Behaviors.”  It’s a lengthy article with information supported by research.  I wanted to share a part of that article with you regarding successful parenting behaviors.  It has to do with being the role model to your child. 

“Do what I say and not what I do,” is a common phrase that is often repeated; however it only confuses children. Children will not do what the parent says, since they will do what the parents have modeled. Children model the behaviors that the parent has presented to them time and time again. Looking at the messages one sends to his or her child is easily seen by analyzing one’s own behaviors. The parents’ main goal is to always set a positive example that the children can model ...   more »