From being a sweet singer in his teens, Justin Bieber has gone through a drastic change in terms of his image over the years. Moreover, the pop star's wild behavior has made some parents question the young celebrity's influence and effect on their kids.
However, let the objective side of you stand out. Explain to your kids in the most logical ways why some of their role models may act contrary to expectations. Here are some tips on how to do it.
Be specific in your explanations to grade schoolers
A Common Sense Media article encouraged parents to use simple words when talking to grade schoolers. If you have little one who is an avid Bieber fan, just tell your child that people sometimes make mistakes. Tell your kid that we all have opportunities to realize our mistakes and amend them.
Emphasize lessons learned from mistakes to pre-teens
Pre-teens need to start understanding the importance of accountability and responsibility. Have a heart-to-heart talk with your son or daughter. You can advise your pre-teen child to learn from Bieber's downfall to lead a better life.
Analyze the motives behind the negative behavior
You can teach responsibility to your teens better by analyzing the motives behind stars' negative behavior together, as suggested in The Tennessean. Knowing the motives behind the behaviors that destroy one's character will teach regular teenagers a lesson.
State the characteristics of a positive role model
Be straightforward in letting your kids know the characteristics of a positive role model. For instance, you can tell them that a positive role model does not hurt others - be it physically or emotionally.
CNN reported that Bieber and his bodyguards allegedly harassed the singer's ex-neighbors and their familes. These previous neighbors claimed that the pop star and his crew vandalized their homes with eggs and insulted them with anti-semitic comments.
Ask questions all the time
Do not hesitate to ask questions to teens as you talk about their role models. Asking questions is the best way to know your children's confusion as well as hopes, and aspirations in life.
State the value of consequences
Stress the importance of the value of consequences to older kids and teenagers. Tell them that as people grow older, the need to take accountability for their actions increases. For this reason, they need to avoid impulsiveness whenever they make major decisions.
Being a good role model inspires others to be the best they can be. As a parent, you should be there to guide your kids. However, you should not shield them completely from life's harsh realities.
