Walk the talk. Kids always look up to their parents as models for their behavior. Want them to eat veggies? Load up on the green stuff yourself.
Teach them to be mommy-free. Face it, there will come a tome when you to let go of your kids. Help them grow up to be independent adults by giving them the freedom to figure out things on their own.
Get to know your child. Spend "alone time" with your kids. Take each child out on separate dates and do activities of their choice. You’ll discover what excites, inspires and pleases them. And without ate or kuya around, they may be more willing to open up about their concerns.
Monitor media. Kid's brain is like sponges, and they can easily pick up the wrong messages. Not all kiddie shows on TV are kid-friendly.
Do encourage, don't coerce. Showing your scared toddler toward a party clown or obliging your teen to join a volunteer activity will only have a negative effect on the child. Instead, think of ways to help build their confidences over time.
Source: Good Housekeeping Oct. 2005 Ed.