Children learn to impersonate others at a very young age. It’s how they suss out how to behave, care for themselves, cultivate new skills, and communicate with others. From their earliest moments they study you closely and set their own deeds and opinions after yours. Your standards become abiding representations, which will set their stance and demeanour for the rest of their life.
It’s very important to be conscientious, consistent and caring with your child. And this also applies to the relationship you have with your spouse, your parents, and other family members and friends that are also a part of your son or daughter’s life. Own up to errors when you make them, and communicate openly and honestly with all family members.
It’s also very important to look after yourself. When we’re concentrating on what’s best for our child it’s natural to overlook our own needs. Your child and your family are depending on you both emotionally and physically, so it’s important that you teach your child by example that looking after yourself helps you to take care of them and the rest of your family. This shows your child that not only do you love them and the rest of the family, but you love yourself as well. This is a key action in teaching your child about self pride. This can involve getting a sitter and treating yourself to say a movie and dinner out, or doing some favorite activity on your own. This demonstrates to your child that you are not merely their parent, but a an individual with your needs and interests. It also gives them an occasion to show you how well they can manage without you with them for a short time.
It’s also imperative to nurture your relationship with your spouse. Let your child see you communicate in a positive and healthy manner with each other, and demonstrate love and affection for each other so your child can begin to appreciate from an early age what a healthy marriage should be like.
You’ll soon find your child mirroring many of their actions after your own. Make sure that what you say and do around your child will help encourage a strong sense of security and self confidence.