A role model is a person who serves as an example by influencing others. For many children, the most important role models are their parents and caregivers. Children look up to a variety of role models to help shape how they behave in school, relationships or when making difficult decisions. Children also look up to other relatives, teachers, coaches and peers. Children may try to copy the behavior and apperance of celebrities, such as athletes and entertainers, and characters from books, tv, movies or video games. Some parents may want to help their children choose positive role models.
Factors to Consider while discussing Role Models with Children:
- Have the child identified what qualities they admires in his/her role model
- Give examples of people in your community who you feel have positive qualities and are a good influence on others
- Talk about people you look up to for guidance and inspiration
My experiences when I was a kid:
- I wanted to be like my Maths teacher. She was very nice to everyone. She looked very nice. The technique of teaching was very good. I wanted to be like her.
- I wanted to be like my parents. They both are very hardworking. My parents are my idol.
Talk to your students, share your experiences. Be good to them. As teachers, it is important that we look into our behaviour. You never know how many of your students will be looking upto you and how much their lives can be shaped with your example!