Okay, so today I wanted to tackle something a bit different – “role models set a good one for your children crossword”. It’s not just about filling in the blanks, but it got me thinking about the whole idea of being a role model. I have three kids, and lately, I’ve been feeling the pressure of setting a good example. So, I decided to dive into this and document my journey.
First off, I grabbed a few crosswords focused on positive traits. You know, the usual suspects like integrity, compassion, and perseverance. I sat down with my eldest, who’s ten, and we started working through them together. It was interesting to see his take on words like “humility” and how he associated them with people he admired.
Starting the Conversation
- Started with basic crosswords: I found some simple crosswords online that were geared towards kids and focused on positive qualities.
- Engaged my son: I made it a collaborative effort, asking for his input and discussing what each word meant to him.
This led to a bigger conversation about who our role models are. We talked about relatives, teachers, and even some of his favorite athletes. I was surprised by some of his choices and the reasons behind them. It wasn’t just about being good at something, but also about how these people behaved off the field.
Expanding the Discussion
- Discussed different types of role models: We talked about family members, educators, and even public figures.
- Analyzed their qualities: We discussed what made these people admirable, focusing on their actions and behaviors.
Then, I decided to up the ante. I wanted to not just talk the talk but also walk the walk. I started being more mindful of my own actions. For example, I started to be more aware of how to keep my cool when something went wrong.
Putting Words into Action
- Demonstrated patience: I made a conscious effort to control my temper and react calmly to frustrating situations.
- Showed empathy: I tried to be more understanding and compassionate in my interactions with others.
- Emphasized integrity: I made sure my actions aligned with my words, even when it was difficult.
Honestly, it wasn’t easy. There were times when I messed up, but I used those moments as teaching opportunities. I would openly admit my mistake, apologize if necessary, and explain what I should have done differently. I think this was just as important as getting it right.
Reflecting on Mistakes
- Acknowledged my errors: I didn’t try to hide my mistakes but instead used them as learning opportunities.
- Apologized when needed: I showed my kids that it’s okay to admit when you’re wrong and to say sorry.
- Discussed alternative actions: We talked about what I could have done differently and how to handle similar situations in the future.
It’s been a few weeks now, and I can already see a difference. The kids are more mindful of their own behavior, and we have more open conversations about making good choices. It’s a work in progress, but I’m committed to this journey. It’s not just about filling in a crossword; it’s about building character, one day at a time.
At the end of the day, I realized that being a role model isn’t about being perfect. It’s about striving to be better, learning from our mistakes, and showing our kids that we’re all human. And that’s a lesson worth more than any crossword puzzle could ever teach.
