Children learn a great deal through watching and imitating others; however, there is no shortage of negative role models in today’s society.  Both children and teenagers spend a lot of time in front of video games, television, and the Internet - which don’t necessarily advertise family values in every situation. 

Many parents don’t really think much of their sons or daughters imitating actors and actresses on television but the fact remains that many children and teenagers do just that. This can be displayed in the way they dress, act, and talk – just to name a few.

Many parents want to be the main influence in a child’s life but most parents are not – especially when they are competing with so many external influences.

There are a few things you can do to help your child surround themselves with positive role models.

•  Start limiting the time your child spends in front of the television, Internet, or video games, and start spending quality time with your child. These outside influences are presenting your child with a wide array of material that they should not be exposed to. Even cartoons that were extremely innocent at one time are no longer that way. If you can take some time and watch your child’s favorite episodes with them you will quickly learn whether or not what they are watching is appropriate.
• Make sure you are spending quality time with your child. This is the best way to teach him or her characteristics that build good character in a person, such as dependability, honesty, compassion, integrity, and high standards and morals.
• Talk with your child about the outside influences they witness. Explain to them that these things are not always appropriate and why. You aren’t going to keep them away from every negative thing out there but you can be there to help them process what they are taking in.