How do you teach your kids about integrity when nobody's watching?

1w ago1 min read

Been thinking about this a lot lately. My oldest caught me being less than honest about something small and called me out on it. Really humbling moment where I realized I need to live what I'm teaching, not just say it. Now trying to be intentional about modeling integrity in little things. Taking the extra change back at the store, admitting when I messed up instead of making excuses, showing them that doing the right thing matters even when it costs us something. Anyone else struggle with this?

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Comments(7)

MMichael P.New Dad1w ago

This is the real test isn't it. It's easy to be honest when someone's watching but the character is built in those small moments when nobody cares.

PPete L.Regular1w ago

Those moments sting but they stick with them forever. My kids have caught me slipping too, and I've learned that owning it right then and there teaches way more than pretending it didn't happen. Sounds like you're doing it right.

RRick J.Regular1w ago

Man, that's the real stuff right there. Your kid calling you out is actually the best teacher - way better than any lecture you could give. The fact that you're humble about it means they're already learning what integrity actually looks like.

JJames H.Regular1w ago

This is the stuff that matters most. Kids learn integrity by watching how you handle it when you mess up, not by watching you be perfect. The fact that your oldest felt safe enough to call you out says you're building something real.

DDerek M.New Dad1w ago

Kids are watching everything we do even when we don't think they are. I got caught in a small lie about something dumb and had to have a whole conversation about why I did it. Humbling.

JJosh H.New Dad1w ago

What was the situation if you don't mind me asking? I think a lot of us are wrestling with this same thing and it helps to know how other dads handle it.

JJoey M.New Dad1w ago

I struggle with this one. Like when I tell my daughter I have to work late but I'm really just going to get some peace and quiet at home. She doesn't know the difference but I know.