Social Scientists have shown that much of the learning in childhood happens through 'observation' and 'imitation'. For most children, parents and care-givers are the first role models as children grow up looking up to them and other relatives- teachers, peers, celebrities and characters from books and movies as role models.
Role models are necessary for children development because positive role models for children are important in motivatin and their development; parents, family, school and the community need to recognize that children will copy their behaviours from these role models in early childhood and their behaviour are important motivations for a child's future.
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 try to copy the behaviours and appearance of celebrities such as athlets and entertaines, and characters from book, TV, movies, video games. Some parents may want to help their children choose positive role models hear are some help ful suggestion for discussing role models with your child.
Suggestion for positive role model for yourself:
- Have your child identity what qualities he/she admires in his/her role model?
- Give example 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
