How to Teach Children About Modesty

Most mothers do not want their children to model themselves after Britney Spears or Paris Hilton. But how do you teach them to behave and dress modestly in a world where Wal-Mart sells t-shirts that say "Hottie" for four-year-olds? Teaching children to dress modestly can help them tremendously when they are teenagers and start to wonder if their value lies solely in their bodies. Read on to learn how.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Good judgment
• Self-control

How to Teach Children About Modesty

1. You must set a good example. If your daughter sees you showing cleavage and wearing short shorts, she's going to want to do the same. However, if she sees that you don't flaunt yourself around, she'll learn that modesty is way to show respect for yourself and others.

2. Teach your children that confidence comes from within. Praise them for their kindness, goodness, accomplishments and brains. If they only hear you praise them for their hairstyles or their new outfits, they'll think you value superficial achievements.

3. Find good role models. Most rock stars and actors do not currently have a great track record for good, clean living. Find good role models for your children. History books are wonderful because children can see how a lifetime of hard work and good living can lead to a lifetime of happiness and achievement.

4. Help your children find good friends. Friends are extremely influential to children. Encourage your children to make friends with kids who share similar values.

5. Start young. If you dress a three-year-old in a tiny bikini, it's difficult to tell her when she's 13 that it's time to start dressing more modestly. If you start them dressing modestly when they're young, it doesn't have to be a big issue later on.