Character Building Models ~ ‘Gangsta’ Rappers or You?

 

Parenting Tips by Jean Tracy, MSS, for grades K-6:

Parenting Skills ~ "Sometimes You Have to Make the Better Judgment."

My friend, Michelle Sutter, a middle school teacher, tells parents, "Sometimes you have to make the better judgment."

Parenting Agenda ~ Today's' Agenda for Building Character in Kids:

• In my last post, we examined 50 Cent's website.
• We also examined the importance of discussing messages from 'gangsta' rappers with your kids.
• Today, we'll promote your values.

Parenting Skills ~ Who Will You Allow to Influence Your Kids?

Whether you're a busy parent, a single parent, or a part-time parent, it isn't easy knowing who your child's listening to. Yet it must be done. I know a mom whose son is grown, still at home, and has a gun. She told me told me, "I wish I'd never let those violent video games in the house."

• Parenting Advice ~ You Can Make the Better Judgment by Knowing:
• The music your child likes. Is it troublesome? Would you play it in your home for your friends? Google it on the web and listen to it. Then you'll know.
• The video games your child plays. Are they violent? Do you care if they control your child's mind? One way to know is to play games and find out.
• The movies your child wants to watch. Are they of value? Would you care if they to influenced your child's actions? One way to know is to watch them together and discuss them.

Parenting Tips ~ Let Your Values Shine:

Remember that saying, "Do as I say, not as I do." Don't buy it. Letting your values shine means influencing your child by:

• Doing what you want your child to see, hear, and do.
• Modeling tolerance, empathy, and respect for others.
• Teaching social problem solving.
• Emphasizing reason and self-discipline.
• Being kind and firm.

What Do You Think?

How difficult is it for you to know who is influencing your child? Is it hard for you to, 'make the better judgment?'

In my next post, we'll discuss 5 super places busy parents like you can discuss values with your kids.

If you liked these parenting tips, pick up our FREE Parenting Tips - 21 of the Best at http://www.KidsDiscuss.com where you'll find them at the top of the page.

Subscribe to our FREE Parenting Newsletter and receive 80 fun activities to share with your kids.

 

If you're wondering where to find moral dilemmas for your family discussions, treat your family to our Dilemma Discussion Kit with its 51 dilemmas. The time to build character is when they're young.