Leading By Example

This parenting gig is quite a ride! Something different to enjoy, experience (or endure!) at every age and stage.

I always feel there’s no better reality check for my own bad behavior than seeing it reflected back at me. I’ll never forget the time my toddler shook her fist at a driver in another car, shouting “You stupid guy!” I got a giggle out of it, sure, but it also humbled me a bit, reminding me that my kids are new at life, so they’re watching and learning from me.

Here things I try to keep mindful of in the presence of little ones:

• Be happy – I’m a woman as well as a mom. I should enjoy life, have outside-of-family pursuits, friends, interests, hobbies.
• Handle difficult situations with grace – No matter how warranted, I don’t lash out at others. I am in control of my choices and behavior.
• Be healthy – Who am I to tell my kids that eating their greens and exercising is important, if I don’t do the same?
• Be polite – With everyone: family, friends, little kids, spouse. Always say please and thank you, excuse me, etc.
• They can’t read my mind – when I’m working through a problem, sometimes I think out loud. Helps them understand the process.
• Emote – I want them to know emotions are okay. When I’m hurt, happy, or angry, I say so. Sometimes the kids even help me through it.
• Stand up for what’s right – comfort zone be gone! I think, “What would I want my kids to do?” “What would I want my kids to see ME do?”

At every opportunity, I try to model my own values, to follow my own rules, and to live my truth. Because that’s exactly what I’d want my girls to do, and they’re watching.

Natalie Rea

Mom to two amazing daughters - a feisty teen in middle school, and an ambitious young adult in university. Originally from Montréal's West Island, I now explore the beautiful trails of Hamilton, Ontario. Proud Canadian, vegetarian, dog-adopter, & bleeding-heart liberal. I smile a lot because I have Resting Bitch Face.