As a parent, I sometimes find myself concealing certain behaviors under the pretense of setting a good example for my kids. I lecture them about the importance of a nutritious breakfast, yet indulge in three cookies the moment they board the bus. I scold them for not sharing their toys, while I sneak snacks to avoid sharing mine. I emphasize the necessity of a good night’s sleep, only to stay up late binge-watching shows.
While my actions occasionally contradict my words, one thing I make a point to showcase is the affection I have for my partner, Mike. Given that my children will likely form relationships in their future, I aim to instill in them the values of love and appreciation for their significant others—an essential foundation for their happiness.
Everyone understands how significantly a relationship can affect one’s daily mood. An unhappy partnership can reverberate through various aspects of life, impacting self-esteem and productivity. By modeling a healthy relationship now, I hope to equip my children for success in their future partnerships.
It’s not the grand gestures that matter most. Yes, it’s lovely when Mike surprises me with flowers, but what I want my kids to notice are the small, meaningful acts of kindness we share. For instance, Mike leaves for work before dawn and often skips breakfast to avoid waking anyone. So, I take a few moments each evening to prepare a fruit smoothie for him, which I stash in the freezer. When my kids see me doing this, I explain that it’s my way of ensuring he starts his day off right.
I also share little moments like receiving a thoughtful text from Mike saying, “I love you; hope you’re having a great day.” I show it to the kids, highlighting how it brightens my mood. When he brings home takeout on particularly chaotic evenings, I remark, “Isn’t it sweet of Dad to think of us?” Sometimes, I even involve them by asking, “What can we do today to show Dad we appreciate him?”
Just as arguing in front of children can affect them, so can displaying affection. It subtly teaches them that maintaining a partnership requires ongoing effort; love is not merely a feeling but an action. This understanding fosters a sense of consideration and care that they can apply in any relationship.
Although my kids may roll their eyes at these “sappy” displays of affection now, they will inevitably draw from these experiences when they enter their own relationships. They will recognize that the strength of our relationship serves as the bedrock of our family life, reinforcing the importance of nurturing it.
I acknowledge that Mike and I are not perfect—we have our moments of selfishness and disagreements like any couple. However, we consistently strive to demonstrate compassion and care for one another. Ultimately, we agree that the most valuable gift we can provide our children is the assurance of our love for each other, as well as the skills they can use in their own relationships.
For more insights on enhancing your journey to parenthood, check out our post on boosting fertility supplements. Additionally, the Indiana Fertility Institute offers expert advice on this topic, and IVF Babble is an excellent resource for all things related to pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, modeling a healthy relationship for our children is one of the best gifts we can give them. It equips them with the tools they will need to build their own successful partnerships in the future.