Instilling morales in kids today can be both a challenge and sure way to get Grey hair very early. As a mother of two I'm still young and have much to learn about parenting. Even so, there are still somethings that I am quite sure of. My three year old had a mild bout with the terrible twos, only because I was firm and didn't let her tantrums get to me. Now that she is three we have discovered that she indeed listens to things only she wants to hear.

Children are like tape recorders. Whatever you do or say they are most likely to pick it up in a heartbeat. This is why my husband and I decided to reverse it and turn negative into positive. Whenever our daughter hands us something we say "Thank you," Whenever she sneezes we reply "Bless you," Sooner or later we noticed that whenever we sat her down to dinner or gave her something she would say "thank you" People were astonished that such a small child could have such good manners.

We also started to say "May I" and "Please" She picked that up as well. Now we aren't perfect we still may swear every once and a while and yes she picks that up to.

The point is children look up to their parents, and whether the influence is good or bad they pick up the habits. Older siblings may also play a role in some of the things a younger sibling picks up. Make sure you also talk to your older children about what not to say and do around younger children.

If you let your older children call you by a certain name, your younger children will as well. If your older children reply "Yes ma'am, Yes sir" the Younger child is sure to pick it up sooner or later.

It's all about the environment that a child grows up in. If the parents are loud and unruly the child will know nothing more. The upbringing of your child is in your hands, and you may have to raise yourself before you can raise them.

Learn more about this author, Rhonica Wesley.
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