When I was growing up, the Johnny Carson show was strictly off limits. Airing way past my bedtime, it was just not anything I could watch until I became an adult. Now, thanks to cable stations who air these "long ago" television shows, I'm getting caught up.
Recently, one of Johnny's guests was Erma Bombeck. My generation might recognize the name. She was a writer with a column syndicated in hundreds of newspapers who basically described her life as a mother, wife, journalist. But what made her so engaging was her honesty--she didn't sugar coat her life. She wrote with wit and wisdom but was very clear that what she dealt with on a daily basis wasn't pretty. Here's a couple quotes from Ms. Bombeck:
“When a child is locked in the bathroom with water running and he says he's doing nothing but the dog is barking, call 911. ”
“Never lend your car to anyone to whom you have given birth.”
"Cleaning the house while the children are home is like shoveling while it’s still snowing."
I realized that my urge to write and embed humor into my writing probably was slightly influenced by Ms. Bombeck. I then began to think about the importance of role models. As an adult there are surely people I admire. What about our kids? Do we pay attention to who THEY admire? Could you name your child's role models?
After doing some research I can definitely say that parents need to be aware of who their child's role models are. Why? Because role models can influence a child in many positive, and not so positive ways. A positive role model should be:
- Accepting
- Ambitious
- Confident
- Committed to self-improvement
- Encouraging
- Goal-oriented
- Hardworking
- Optimistic
Talk to your child. Many young people admire professional athletes, celebrities, social media stars. The main concern is to make sure that person isn't just a role model for their celebrity status or how much money they make. It's what they do when they're out of the spotlight that matters. One caution I came across was to know how to handle if your child's role model disappoints. Have that conversation ready on making good choices, having an understood set of values, respecting yourself and others. Guide your child to not only admire those who are in the limelight but also have "everyday" role models like teachers, coaches, relatives, peers. Encourage your child to set goals and find those who do or have done the same. Does their role model treat people kindly and fairly? Is that important? Does their role model shine on the athletic field in a sport they love? Develop a healthy approach to pursuing their talent that balances with other goals.
As always, communication is key. Start those conversations and encourage your child to share their thoughts and ideas. Keeping a journal is a great way for them to track their progress on goals. Support them as they move through life, recognizing their ideals and talents and how they will use them as adults.
