How to Set a Good Role Model for Toddlers

Toddlers learn primarily by observation.

Toddlers are highly imitative beings. They especially love to imitate their parents. Therefore, it is critical that parents and other caregivers provide a positive role model to toddlers. A positive role model is the foundation for good behavior in childhood and adolescence.

Instructions

1. Demonstrate good table manners and healthy eating habits. Eat at the table with the television and other entertainment devices turned off. Avoid walking around when you eat, because this presents a choking hazard in young children who might try to mimic you. Use utensils when appropriate, chew with your mouth closed and finish your vegetables.

2. Treat others with respect. Use a calm voice when communicating with others, even in stressful or tense situations. Avoid raising your voice, even if you become angry or upset. Maintain your cool to teach toddlers positive interpersonal behavior.

3. Say only kind things about other people in front of your toddler. Avoid gossiping about or slandering others, even if you think your toddler is oblivious. She is probably more perceptive than you think.

4. Narrate your behavior to help toddlers understand what you are doing. For instance, if sharing a snack with your toddler, say, “I am going to share with you because nice people share.”

5. Use consistency. All it takes is one instance of observing bad behavior for your toddler to imitate your bad example.

References

• Better Health Channel: Toddlers and Mealtime Manners
• Iowa State University Extension: "Understanding Children"; Disciplining your toddler; Lesia Oesterreich, Feb. 2007