Date: 4/19/2023

Why Kids Need Positive Role Models in Their Life

Estimated reading time: 2 min 1 sec

Why kids need positive role models in their life? When our kids are young, we often worry about their ability to make friends and how those friendships will influence and shape their lives. This can and should be a real concern for parents. But many parents underestimate the need for positive role models in their child’s life. Those role models are not always who you think they might be.

Common adult role models for your child can include:

Parents and caregivers
Teachers and mentors
Community leaders
Athletes and celebrities
Fictional characters from a child-appropriate book or film

Well-rounded kids look up to role models in more than one of those categories above. But how specifically can these role models, especially fictional ones, impact a child’s development and well-being?

5 reasons role models are good for kids

Inspiration

Positive role models can inspire children to set goals and strive for their dreams. Children with positive role models are more likely to develop a sense of purpose and direction in life.

2. Emotional well-being

Positive role models such as teachers, church youth group leaders, and even primary care physicians can provide emotional support and stability for children. Children with positive role models are less likely to experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

3. Moral development

Kids with positive role models are more likely to develop a strong sense of morals and values and understand the difference between right and wrong. This means they are less likely to exhibit bullying behaviors and are more likely to express empathy to others. Ultimately, kids exposed to positive role models are more likely to exhibit ethical behavior and make good decisions that will carry with them as they age.

4. Academic success

When kids know that they have someone to turn to when they are struggling and understand that it is okay to ask for help, they are more likely to succeed academically. This means higher grades due to better motivation and a desire for academic fulfillment and success.

5. Personal growth

Kids with a positive figure to look up to are more likely to develop important life skills such as self-confidence, self-discipline, and resilience. Those with positive role models are better positioned to handle life’s challenges and navigate difficult situations.

Help your child find positive role models in their life

One of our responsibilities is to help our children differentiate between positive adult role models and those that can bring them harm. But this doesn’t mean parents should fear introducing their kids to new adults. Some of the best places to help your child find great examples of good people are at school during after-school activities and athletics, at church in a kid’s group or youth program, and through community education.

If your child needs more positive influences, consider finding a program for them. This will help them find a role model and give them something else to look forward to that will help them fill their time and grow their experiences.