Todays' Family

Do you cringe when you hear your son or daughter say, "I want to be just like ___"? Because of media saturation, we just know too much about some of these people's real character.

Hollywood role models exist, they are just hard to come by because of all of the negative "newsworthy" stories. When a parent hears who their children are looking up to, it is too often that parents don't feel comfortable supporting that person b/c of tabloid headlines and news stories.

The reason why people are good role models is not just because they are famous. In this day and age, I think a lot of kids equate success with being famous. There are many other figures in our world that are successful in life, for other reasons besides being famous.

It is hard to teach children what and who is admirable because sometimes people who are not acting so admirable are reaping positive benefits. You can help them to see good qualities in people who are famous and ordinary by doing these things:

Highlighting the real role models - The frequent Hollywood "newsmakers" are usually highlighted for making wrong choices, even when they know the world is watching. Talk about and introduce people in conversation that continue to show integrity, family values, strong work ethic, service, and respect for themselves and others.

Point out character traits not physical traits -

Walk the Walk - Remember that the number one influence in your children's lives are not movie stars, athletes, or other media related characters, but YOU!

They don't say that children are like sponges for no reason. It is true. They are always watching and listening to you- the person they want to be just like!

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Margie wants you to know that, "I am very passionate about what I do. I know that parenting is the hardest and most important job in the world! I would like to reach as many parents as possible to help them to take extra steps to make their parenting experience a positive one! There is no such thing as the "perfect parent" it is an ongoing process and it is never to late to try something new!"