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Child Quote by John Bradshaw

“Children need parents who model self-discipline rather than preach it. They learn from what their parents are actually willing to do; not from what they say they do.” quote by John Bradshaw
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“Children need parents who model self-discipline rather than preach it. They learn from what their parents are actually willing to do; not from what they say they do.”

John Bradshaw

About This Quote

Source Book: Family Secrets, John Bradshaw, 1990

Children emulate observed behavior more than spoken advice, so parents must act with self-discipline to teach it.

In simple terms: Kids learn by watching, not listening.

Key Takeaway

Model discipline daily.

Themes

parenting self-discipline role modeling

Mood

reflective concerned

Type

advice instructional

When to use this quote

  • family meals
  • homework time
  • daily routines
  • discipline training

Key Concepts

behavioral learning social modeling

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can parents consistently demonstrate discipline?
  • What habits best illustrate self-discipline?
A Different Perspective

Children may misinterpret occasional lapses as norms.

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