It’s been two and a half years since I became a father, and I’m learning so much.

I’m slowly realizing that a 2.5-year-old is:

• Much more smarter than we imagine
• Know a lot more than we assume
• Much stronger and flexible physically and mentally
• Much more observant than what we think of them

My daughter has begun sensing the tone in which my wife and I speak. A hint of irritation in our voices, and she’s almost like, “Stop it; I know where this is leading.” She recognizes when we argue, speak lovingly, shout joyfully, or express anger.

Nothing escapes her observation. I’m convinced this keen awareness is typical of children her age, with slight variations based on personality.

What’s remarkable is that my daughter adjusts her behavior based on what she observes. For instance:

When my wife and I cook in the evenings after our daughter returns from daycare, she now understands our need to cook and keeps herself occupied with books or magnet tiles.

Another instance is when we exercise in the morning before she wakes up and we forget to fold our mats, she looks at it and goes “Exercise”. Now, when I exercise in front of her she is generally ok unless I don’t finish within 45 minutes and for the first few minutes she is trying to imitate me.

These experiences have taught me:

We play a significant role in shaping our children’s values and habits.

If they see us working hard, chances are high that they will appreciate hard work
If they see us happy, chances are high that they grow up happy
If they see us prioritizing somethings over the other, chances are they will do the same
If they see you eating junk, chances are high that they would eat junk
If they see you sleeping late and not exercising, they will pick that up as well

As a parent I am trying hard to set the right examples for her, its hard as hell but I am convinced that it’s the only way to increase the chances of shaping their behaviors.

While this doesn’t guarantee anything, as other factors influence behavior, I’m sure it increases the odds by an order of magnitude.

Now thats not a bad deal is it?