Post by Jessica Ogbemudia (@Jessy4grace)

Sometimes, parents confuse their children without even realizing it.

We tell them:

“Always tell the truth.”

But they watch us lie when it is convenient.

We tell them:

“Respect people.”

But they hear us speak disrespectfully to others.

We tell them:

“Be kind.”

But they see us treat people harshly.

We tell them:

“Keep your promises.”

But they watch us make promises we don’t keep.

And then we wonder why they are struggling to practise the values we keep teaching them.

Children don’t only learn from what we say. They learn from what they repeatedly see.

Our words teach them what is right.

Our actions show them what is possible.

If we want to raise children who are honest, let them see honesty.

If we want respectful children, let them experience respect.

If we want kind children, let them see kindness.

If we want responsible children, let them see responsibility.

Because values are not effectively taught through words alone.

They are taught, modelled, nurtured and reinforced.

Mum. Dad.

Before you ask, “Why isn’t my child practising what I taught?”

Pause and ask yourself:

“What am I showing them?”

Your child may forget some of the things you said…

But the things they consistently see you do can become part of who they become.

Let’s not just teach good values.
Let’s model them.

— Jessica Ogbemudia
Value & Character Advocate
Growing Good Hearts
Building Character. Shaping the Future.

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