What do you teach your children?

Last night DH and I went to a BBQ at a friends house. We all got to talking about what we teach our kids regarding life lessons etc....

Some of the "lessons" I didnt agree with..some I already use....some I plan to incorporate into my parenting.

I thought it would be nice if we went around the table and spoke about ours..or rather started a thread about it.

Here are a few of mine....

Accountability is a big one of mine. If they start an activity such as dance or piano or soccer they have to see it through to fruition. Whether it be the recital, the end of the season etc. It teaches them about committment and helps them to THINK and be less impulsive when making decisions.

I have them make a "formal" apology. Not just say "Im sorry". It builds character. Think about how many people in your life dont have the ability to apologize?

I also try to teach them that sometimes we have to do what we dont want to do...simply b/c it's the RIGHT thing to do. Example: the girls were invited to a sleepover by a little girl who didnt really have many friends. They didnt really want to go. (they are honestly not really friends with the girl but they are nice to her) I asked them "How would you feel if noone wanted to come to your party?" They went to the party and had a nice time.

I have also taught them that in life you need to help people when you can. Dont just not do something for others just b/c you cant be bothered. Go the extra mile for others. If for no other reason than b/c it makes you feel good.


OK now I want to hear everyone elses...

Re: What do you teach your children?

Manners is a big thing for us. Please, Thank You and Sorry's.

That the immediate family is very important and you must respect and love each other, even if you don't always like each other. And that they always have a family that stands behind them (stability).

Empathy. (which some people seem to not posssess naturally).

Self confidence. Go for your goals. Not everything is perfect and that's ok. If things knock you down get back up and know that you are good enough to accomplish whatever you want.

Of course my kids are small but these are things that I (personally) feel are important. Some because they are not things that I had in my life but wish I did.