How we conduct our everyday activities can show our children that we always try to do our best to serve our families, communities and country.

The way that we view money and material goods also can mold our children's character. If we see our self-worth and worth of others in terms of cars, homes, furniture, nice clothes and other possessions,our children are likely to develop these attitudes as well. Of course, it is important to meet our children's needs, but it is also important to help them understand difference between their needs and their wants. The expensive jacket that your child has to have may be OK--if you can afford it.

Finally, we need to be consistent in upholding values we want our children to respect and not present them with conflicting values. We may tell our children that cheating is wrong, for example, yet brag to a neighbor about avoiding paying taxes. We may say that rudeness to others is unacceptable, yet laugh when we see that behavior on a favorite TV show.

Direct your child's activities, but don't be too bossy.

Give reasons when you ask your child to do something. Say, for example, "Please move your truck from stairs so no one falls over it"--not, "Move it because I said so."

Listen to your children to find out how he feels and whether he needs special support.

Show love and respect when you are angry with your child. Criticize your child's behavior but not child. Say for example, "I love you, but it's not okay for you to draw pictures on walls. I get angry when you do that."

Help your child make choices and work out problems. You might ask your 4-year-old, for example, "What can we do to keep your brother from knocking over your blocks?"

Be positive and encouraging. Praise your child for a job well done. Smiles and encouragement go much further to shape good behavior than harsh punishment.