Children always have curious minds. They silently and readily observe adults’ different behaviours and how they handle various situations. Children notice how adults connect with others, handle stress, and treat others. The basics of habits like eating, sleeping, and talking are primarily adopted from parents. Sometimes, it may be amusingly too much or funny, but parents’ behaviour and actions significantly impact a child’s mind.
Experts believe that imitation begins in toddlerhood when a child’s cognitive and communication skills are in the developing stage. Parents are continuously under the watchful eyes of their children, as children meticulously observe their behaviour. Whether it’s a quarrel between parents or a simple act like watering plants, children silently watch and learn. A little encouragement from parents and relatives boosts their confidence to do more. Therefore, it’s always advisable for parents to be on their best behaviour around their children.
Many times, children mostly believe what their teachers say, seeing them as the person with vast knowledge, even if it’s wrong sometimes. While teaching subtraction to my 6-year-old daughter, I noticed a mistake in her classwork that was rightfully signed by her teacher. When I tried to explain the mistake to my daughter, she was adamant not to listen and believed her teacher was right. Hence, not only parents but teachers also play a crucial role in a child’s life. Both teachers and parents need to find common ground for the child, ensuring no conflict between thoughts and knowledge, easily understandable by the child.
As the saying goes, ‘Children mostly follow in the footsteps of their parents,’ and we have often seen children imitating their parents. Here, parents need to keep in mind that their children learn mostly from their lives and the code of conduct they follow. If you see your child doing or saying something that is not right, take a moment to introspect your behavior before correcting or blaming the child. Strive to do what is not only good for you but also for your little ones.
Remember, good behavior starts at home.
