A lot of talk around advocating for a healthy lifestyle for children and youth centres on leading by example. In short, being a great role model. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, sibling or family friend, every one of us has the opportunity to impact how children and youth emulate our behaviours, actions and attitudes.

I’ve been thinking lately about what qualities make for a good role model and a few things come to mind. Role models have often overcome adversity on the path to their goal. They give children someone to look up to and help them to realize the value of hard work and perseverance. Though many role models are famous, I would argue that there is a quiet majority of parents, teachers, family friends and community leaders who fit the bill. Children learn a lot by observation; they will notice and emulate the way those around them handle stress, sorrow, anger and joy and the way in manner in which they live their lives.

 We all learn from the example of others. Especially those we trust and look up to throughout our lives. Those who happen to be in a position of leadership or authority should be conscious of their behaviour at all times, because all eyes are on them. Whatever they do will often be mimicked by those that trust or follow them.  So what are some qualities of a good role model, as it relates to a healthy and active lifestyle?

 Some things to keep in mind:

 1)      Safety
Do you tell your child to wear his/her helmet or put on wrist pads, knee pads, etc.? Or, do you put your safety equipment on first before asking them to do the same?

2)      Attitude
Show good sportsmanship and follow the "golden rule" of sports — in other words, treat the people you play with and against as you'd like to be treated yourself. Competitive play can still be spirited play. You demonstrate good sportsmanship when you show respect for yourself, your teammates, your opponents, the coaches on both sides, and for the referees, judges, and other officials. Bring this attitude with you to your own sports, as well as to any that your child participates in and you support.

3)      Nutrition
Have a healthy attitude toward food and maintain a balance between healthy foods and treats. Have your child participate in picking out groceries and prepare meals with you so that they can develop a solid understanding of food and nutrition. And when you ask your child to try something new, show them that you do the same.

4)      Activity
When the option is available, choose physical activity as your means of transportation. Whether it’s walking to the grocery store or biking with your child to school, by exemplifying a physically active lifestyle, your child will be more likely to carry that attitude with them as they get older. The car doesn’t have to be the default answer.

As a role model, the influence you have on other people can be positive or negative, but what often makes role models admirable is their ability to think about more than just themselves. They are aware of how their actions affect other people. By leading your life in way that you would want your child to lead theirs, you are already acting as a positive role model.