Helping Your Child Learn Responsible Behavior - continued

Oops!

Sometimes, as parents, we don't act the way we should in front of our children.

What to do

1. Try to be honest with yourself and your child if you find that you've done something that sets a bad example. Sometimes we need to think a little about an event to realize that we've done something inappropriate.
2. If your child has observed your behavior, it's especially important that you be honest. A simple statement is appropriate in most cases; there is no need to turn your admission into a major event.
3. Follow up with an apology to anyone you have treated badly and, if possible, by making up for what you have done. It's important that our children, especially older ones, see that we face up to our own mistakes.