Actions Speak Louder Than Words
We’ve all heard the phrase:
Actions speak louder than words.
And we know it’s true.
We judge trustworthiness, discipline, and integrity based on what people do, not just what they say.
Yet, when it comes to our children, we often expect them to follow our words instead of our actions.
We tell them to be patient, but they see us snap at the smallest inconvenience.
We tell them to be disciplined, but they watch us procrastinate.
We tell them to be kind, but they hear us speaking badly about others.
The truth?
Children learn by watching.
What we do matters far more than what we say.
Every action we take sends them a message.
So what are we really teaching them?
Observational Learning – How Children Absorb Everything
Children are observational learners—they mirror the behaviours of those around them.
They watch.
They listen.
They absorb.
It’s why we avoid swearing around kids.
It’s why we try to shield them from aggressive behaviour.
But what many parents forget is that kids aren’t just learning actions—they’re learning their place in the world.
Through our behaviour, they learn:
How to handle stress and setbacks.
What love and respect look like.
Whether they are valued, heard, and important.
The way we treat them shapes how they see themselves.
This isn’t just about parenting—it’s about building the foundation for their future confidence, relationships, and self-worth.
“Do You Really Love Me?”
Every parent tells their child “I love you.”
But imagine this:
You tell your child you love them, but every time they try to talk, you barely look up from your phone.
They show you something exciting, but you give a half-hearted “That’s nice” without real enthusiasm.
They reach out for connection, and you brush them off because you’re busy.
Would you feel loved if this happened to you?
Imagine if your partner told you “I love you,” but then constantly dismissed you, ignored your excitement, and barely acknowledged your presence.
Would you believe their words?
Probably not.
And yet, we expect our children to just know we love them—even when our actions tell a different story.
Love isn’t just spoken—it must be shown.
How to Show (Not Just Tell) Your Kids You Love Them
If you want to strengthen your relationship with your children, start showing them, not just telling them.
1. Give Them Your Full Attention
When your child speaks, put down your phone and be fully present.
Even if what they’re saying seems trivial, it’s important to them.
Listening = Showing love.
When children feel heard, they learn:
They matter.
They are valued.
They can trust you with their thoughts and feelings.
And that trust? It will last into their teenage years and beyond.
2. Engage in Their Excitement
Kids get excited about the little things—celebrate with them!
If they’re thrilled about their toy car, ask them to show you how fast it goes.
If they draw a picture, admire the details and ask about their inspiration.
If they scored a goal at school, celebrate like they just won the World Cup.
When we match their excitement, they feel valued and loved.
And an unexpected benefit?
It improves your mood too—because enthusiasm is contagious.
3. Model the Behaviour You Want to See
Children don’t learn kindness, patience, or discipline because we tell them—they learn by watching how we live.
Want your child to be disciplined? Show them your own discipline.
Want them to respect others? Demonstrate respect in your interactions.
Want them to control their emotions? Show them emotional control, even in stressful situations.
You are their greatest role model.
If you lead with strength, integrity, and love, they will follow.
Your Actions Shape Their Future
Your children don’t just listen to what you say.
They absorb what you do.
So ask yourself:
What message am I sending through my actions?
Am I showing them patience, love, and discipline?
Am I teaching them to be strong, resilient, and kind?
Because at the end of the day, your actions will shape their character—and their future.
And that’s a responsibility worth taking seriously.
Are You Ready to Lead by Example?
If you’re serious about:
Becoming the role model your children need
Developing discipline, patience, and leadership
Creating stronger relationships with those who matter most
Book a Free Consultation Today and Start Building the Future You Want for Your Family.