6 Important Things to Teach Your Child

Instilling good morals and values is by far one of the greatest responsibilities that we have as parents. Although nothing is ever guaranteed, we can only hope that our children will make the right decisions whether we're there to witness their actions or not. This is best done by teaching them right from wrong at an early age.

Here are 6 ways to guide your child to becoming a better person.

1. Don’t be judgemental

As easy as it may be to judge someone based on their actions or behaviour, there is often more than meets the eye. In fact, there are usually layers to a person as to what causes them to be or act certain ways. We would hate to be judged and therefore, we shouldn't judge others. It would make the world a lot more harmonious to not be so quick to judge others and instead practice empathy more.

2. Focus on Positivity

Positivity is such a powerful tool. It turns frowns into smiles and mistakes into lessons. It even pull us out of the darkest pitfalls in life. In a world filled with so much negativity and hate in the spotlight, it can literally make a world of different to be able to focus on the positivity. Encourage your children to be a glass half full type of person, always! Especially by setting a prime example.

3. Be Respectful

R-E-S-P-E-C-T something we can all agree the youth of today can use more of but. that's entirely up to us as parents to instill in our children at an early age. To be a gentleman/woman, to respect our elders, and to just overall treat others with respect. No harm can ever come from being a respectful individual and your child's future spouse will thank you for it later.

4. Treat others how you wish to be treated

The golden rule...we couldn't possibly leave that out. If more people practiced this we would find more peace in the world. It's something that children should be reminded often because this is ultimately teaching empathy. Only when we treat others how we wish to be treated will others give us back what we put out into the universe.

5. Be Appreciative

Gratitude is so important. It helps shape our perspective and makes us appreciate what we are given rather than to expect more. A great way to show appreciation and gratitude is by giving back to the community. Take your child out to volunteer with you at a food drive or hand out care packages around the holidays to the homeless. It'll help your child gain some perspective and be thankful for what they have. Encourage them to donate some of their extra toys or clothing to other children in need is always a great one too!

6. Have Faith

The time we have to guide our children is limited to their youth. Eventually they will leave the nest and take on their own journey through adulthood. Even though we cannot be there every step of the way, the word of our lord will take over and guide them just like it has guided us throughout our adult lives. Be sure to keep the sacred word of Christ close to their heart.