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We reached out to Priya Doshi, mother and creator of the blog How To Be A Positive Parent, to hear what the best thing her parents instilled in her was. "My late father encouraged me to be self-reliant. He also taught me to have self-belief. He would always say to me that it is okay to lose belief in others but never lose belief in yourself," Priya shared. "My mother has taught me to have faith in the universe. Faith can move mountains and also provide consolation in tough times."

We also asked Priya why it's important for parents to make an effort to teach their children, rather than just letting them figure things out on their own. "Parents are powerful role models for their children. So parents are in the best position to teach their children," Priya explained. "If kids are left to learn things on their own, there is no guarantee that they will learn them or by the time they figure things out, they might be in their adulthood and unwilling to change themselves. Children are the future and therefore the future hinges on what their parents have taught them."

Grown Up Children Share 30 Things They Are Proud Their Parents Taught Them My parents always taught me to be affectionate. Kinda weird. But my dad always told me that even though you’re a guy, don’t be like the regular guy that acts all tough and contain everything in.

You will be okay if you cry, if you hug, and if you express your love for your buds. Don’t be afraid to express your emotion & affection especially to those who care for you.

anon , Rada Aslanova Report

Final score:

331points

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Bender Bending Rodríguez 2 years ago

This should be on #1. This is so important for kids especially boys. We were always told and expected to never show emotions and feelings. Things keep bottling up and eventually festers in to toxic masculinity. If we want to minimize (lets face it, its never going away) toxic masculinity, we need to encourage boys to show more emotions and embrace their feelings.

76points

Next, we asked Priya what the most important things are that she wants her children to learn from her. "I want my kids to learn to be self-reliant and resilient like me. I want them to have faith that the universe will always look after them, just like I do," she said. Lastly, Priya wanted to add that, "A parent can make or break a child’s life. It is a position of power and privilege and should be used wisely."

If you're interested in more words of wisdom from Priya, be sure to check out her blog How To Be A Positive Parent right here.

Good manners.

Just basic stuff like "please", "thank you", "you're welcome", etc.

As an adult, I'm honestly shocked by how frequently I see other adults that have terrible manners. "Give me this", "I'll take that", "I want that". Or after a waiter drops off a check and tells them to have a nice day they reply with "yeah" or "sure".

The f**k?

I straight up judge other adults on this stuff. Get your f*****g life together and stop interacting with people like a knuckle dragging neanderthal.

JohnyUtah_ Report

Final score:

293points

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Elliot Fowler 2 years ago

Comparing these people to Neanderthals is an insult to Neanderthals

133points

PM_ME_UR_FROST_TROLL , Tembela Bohle Report

All parents know that they signed up to be feeding, clothing, housing and loving their children, but there is so much more that goes into raising compassionate, curious, ambitious individuals. Not every parent has the luxury of spending plenty of “quantity time” with their kids, as working demanding jobs to provide for the family is unfortunately a common position for moms and dads to find themselves in, but not every lesson has to be a formal discussion. Some beliefs and ideas are instilled in children just by observation. After all, actions do speak louder than words.

In fact, observational learning is a common way for all people to learn, especially kids. According to psychologist Albert Bandura, humans are “naturally inclined to engage in observational learning”, and most of us begin imitating behaviors and actions we see when we’re only two years old. In his book Social Learning Theory, Bandura wrote that, “Most human behavior is learned observationally through modeling: from observing others one forms an idea of how new behaviors are performed, and on later occasions, this coded information serves as a guide for action."

Grown Up Children Share 30 Things They Are Proud Their Parents Taught Them they made drugs and alcohol seem like they weren’t a big deal, they offered wine with dinner, and they held their promises when they said they’d pick me up from a party no questions asked. they made it seem like it wasn’t a forbidden fruit so i never had the urge to abuse it or sneak around. i’ve never had a problem with it thanks to them, i have healthy boundaries

Final score:

242points

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Minath 2 years ago

I did the same with my daughter. She did a bit of experimenting for a year or two and had a bit of fun every now and then. Now she doesn't do any drugs or drink.

58points

ixnayupidstay , Christina Morillo Report

People are constantly learning by example, especially children who want to understand everything about the world, like their parents appear to. Bandura noted in his theory that there are even certain factors that make us more likely to observe and imitate someone else’s behavior. Among the people we are more inclined to mimic are: individuals we view as warm or nurturing, people who are rewarded for their behavior, people in authoritative positions, people who we share similarities with (age, sex, interests, etc), and people we admire or who have a high status in society.

We also are more likely to imitate a certain behavior when we have seen rewards for imitating the same actions in the past, when we are lacking confidence in our own abilities or knowledge, and when we are in a confusing or unfamiliar situation. We look around for answers of how to act or behave, and our instincts take over. This puts parents in a unique position where they can teach their children anything they want, but they also have the pressure of essentially being constantly observed.

Grown Up Children Share 30 Things They Are Proud Their Parents Taught Them I remember being told it was very important to admit when you're wrong, and I think that was solid advice. But I could be wrong.

Final score:

234points

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David Woollands 2 years ago

I agree - admit it if you’ve cocked up - but I’ll be damned if I’m admitting to something I haven’t done!!

60points

They sat us down with them when they paid the bills every month. We started out thinking we had a ton of money ("let's buy X!"), then watching as the paycheck money dwindled as bills were paid. We'd inevitably finish paying bills and think we still had a lot, then Dad would say "you want to eat this month, don't you?" and put aside money for groceries.

It was so useful because we learned how much things actually cost, how to put money away for items you couldn't yet buy (like groceries), and how to save for specific things like retirement and a new roof for the house. It also got us to stop asking for money since we saw that there wasn't much left over.

the-magnificunt Report

Final score:

217points

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Miss Frankfurter 2 years ago

Excellent idea.

50points

The great thing about observational learning is that it can be a way for children to learn without having to listen. Watching a parent eat broccoli and enjoy it will probably have a much more positive effect than hearing a parent explain why kids really should be eating broccoli because it’s good for them. Most of the time, a child does not care if a food is “good for them”. In fact, that might make them less interested when something is sold that way because what they want to know is that it tastes delicious. But watching how much their parents enjoy the vegetable without hearing a lesson about getting enough fiber every day might encourage a kid to eat a few pieces the next time it’s presented at dinner. Mimicking their parents' behavior does come naturally, after all.

Something that has stayed with me forever was when my dad gave me an article from Time magazine that explained in layman's terms how our brains don't stop growing until we're in our early twenties, and one of the last parts of the brain to form is our ability to fully comprehend the consequences of our actions. We think we can, but we can't fully understand the magnitude of our decisions until later in life. I was about 15 when he gave me that article.

He went on to explain that his job, as a parent, was to sort of fill in that gap by making decisions for me that will decrease my chances of making a "bad decision." Basic stuff like curfews, picking me up from things instead of letting friends who might have been drinking drive me home.

The most important takeaway was that he wanted me to know he 100% trusted me, but there was a limit to that trust because even if I thought I was making good decisions, I didn't have all the tools yet to make the best ones.

I appreciate that, looking back on some of the dumb stuff I still managed to get away with at that age. Stuff I would NEVER do now. It was nice having a parent explain why he wanted to control some aspects of my life besides just saying "Because I said so."

menomenaa Report

Final score:

212points

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DuchessDegu 2 years ago

That is absolutely brilliant!

58points

Grown Up Children Share 30 Things They Are Proud Their Parents Taught Them Read me bedtime stories every night as I was growing up. It instilled in me a love of reading and I am certain it contributed to helping my brain work more betterer than people what doesn't read good.

Smyrfinator Report

Final score:

203points

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Kookamunga 2 years ago

Mom used to take me to our tiny town library and I could pick out my books. I still read until I fall asleep....

47points

dontaskmethatmoron , Rachel Claire Report

Grown Up Children Share 30 Things They Are Proud Their Parents Taught Them My mom always made me try a bite of any food in front of her before she’d allow the “I don’t like it” line. Now, thanks to her, I’m willing to try any food/drink once, even if I think I won’t like it. I’m glad she did that.

Final score:

201points

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Daniel Heys 2 years ago

Yep my mom also taught me this!

31points

Observational behavior can be used for many more lessons than the value of eating vegetables. Some of the replies featured on this list mention parents who were always quick to apologize or own up to their mistakes. These are powerful lessons for children to pick up on as well. By seeing a parent admit when they are wrong, these kids learned something that many full-grown adults still struggle with. Kids assume that their parents know how to appropriately respond to any situation, so by seeing examples of humility and heartfelt apologies, children understand that they should do the same. Similarly, parents who work hard and have a great work ethic will be watched by their kids. It is much more powerful to see examples of dedication and commitment to tasks, hobbies and relationships than to simply hear that you should give everything your all.

#10

Grown Up Children Share 30 Things They Are Proud Their Parents Taught Them They taught me tolerance and acceptance. They told me they would love me no matter my religion, sexual orientation, political alliance, or profession. They taught me to accept people and love them for their character and to find people who will love me for my character.

Steeps87 , Sharon McCutcheon Report

Final score:

172points

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Jason B. 2 years ago

Mine taught me that tollerance is not the same as acceptance. Let others live the way they want, but you don't have to think their lifestyle is right. Focus on making your life happy, let everyone else focus on theirs.

73points

#11

Grown Up Children Share 30 Things They Are Proud Their Parents Taught Them Family dinner every night when Dad got home. No TV and obviously no phones because it was 40 years ago. We talked about our day and laughed about stuff. Good times and very important part of my childhood.

spautrievas Report

Final score:

159points

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ADHORTATOR 2 years ago

Same here: We always took dinner together, and so did my family in law. So we continued this with our own children...they are students now and force their roommates to do the same :-)

39points

#12

Grown Up Children Share 30 Things They Are Proud Their Parents Taught Them I have autism which caused a lot of issues. A psychiatrist had me diagnosed and my parents made sure I had the support I needed.

It's easy to say someone is a difficult child, but figuring out why and helping that child find a path in life that works for them, is the best thing they could ever have done for me.

Guilty_Coconut , Caleb Oquendo Report

Final score:

151points

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Mistiekim 2 years ago

The last part is so important. I’ve known people with difficult kids whom they just keep punishing over and over without ever figuring why and then helping, not just yelling.

43points

One of the reasons that it is so important for parents to instill valuable lessons into their children is that it is so much harder to learn when we get older. When a kid goes 18 years without ever being asked how their day was, that is likely not going to be a habit they pick up overnight. Once a young person has left the nest, there are so many new things to worry about like paying bills and maintaining adult relationships, they should not have to use that time to learn how to process their emotions as well. When it comes to emotional availability, adults that grew up stunted in the realm of emotional intelligence can have a very hard time catching up. On the contrary, kids that grow up in households where emotions are discussed and validated tend to become much more empathetic adults.

#13

Grown Up Children Share 30 Things They Are Proud Their Parents Taught Them You can do whatever you want but you are responsible for your choices.

Arriabella , cottonbro Report

Final score:

141points

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Icy_Question_4977 2 years ago

That is just so true

31points

#14

Grown Up Children Share 30 Things They Are Proud Their Parents Taught Them My mom instilled a deep sense of empathy in me and compassion for those less fortunate than myself

poornose , Engin Akyurt Report

Final score:

137points

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Ambry Petersen 2 years ago

Extremely important thing to have.

24points

#15

Grown Up Children Share 30 Things They Are Proud Their Parents Taught Them They made sure I understood money, money management, saving for retirement, etc. Made my life so much easier have never had to worry about money or debt a day in my life.

FlameFrenzy , Kuncheek Report

Final score:

136points

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Miss Frankfurter 2 years ago

I wish mine had. I’d probably be in a better financial situation right now. But they weren’t really good with it either.

41points

Raising an empathetic person is the goal of every parent right? It may not always be at the top of the priority list, but nobody wants a child who has no regard for the feelings of others. (Unless you’re a supervillain trying to raise your successor…) To help parents understand how to foster empathy in their little ones, mother and author of the book The Happy Kid Handbook: How to Raise Joyful Children in a Stressful World Katie Hurley wrote a piece for Positive Parenting Solutions outlining her best tips. Number one being validating a range of emotions. “If kids are to care about the feelings of others, they need to achieve self-awareness of their own feelings,” Katie writes. Making it a habit to ask your kids how they are feeling and assuring them that you understand can go a long way. Kids need to have names for their emotions and know that it is healthy to take time to feel a wide range of emotions, rather than trying to conceal anything or shut down. When they feel safe to share with their parents, they will learn how to make others feel safe to open up to them too.

#16

Grown Up Children Share 30 Things They Are Proud Their Parents Taught Them They respected our privacy. Always knocked on our doors, never went through our computer history or looked at our phones, etc. They would ask us who we were talking to, but if they REALLY wanted to see the messages, they would ask us to show them. They showed that they cared, but they also trusted us to make the right decisions. Now, I can go and talk to my parents about anything! Our relationship is great! I'm so thankful!

hlturner , Kulbir Report

Final score:

134points

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ADHORTATOR 2 years ago

my wife never understood why our daughter wanted to lock her room, but I did. I gave her a key but she almost never used it

36points

Col_Walter_Tits , Juan Pablo Serrano Arenas Report

#17

Grown Up Children Share 30 Things They Are Proud Their Parents Taught Them Always letting me know that I was loved no matter what.

Final score:

133points

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AndThenICommented 2 years ago

This

25points

Sophia Atkinson 2 years ago (edited)

This makes me think back to a very heated argument I had with my parents and how after the argument they apologized for yelling at me and not seeing my side of the situation, that if they scared me they were sorry, and that they loved me even when I was screaming at them. The first time I told them that their yelling scared me, and we got into another argument and they started to yell, they paused and then we worked it out. We still yell though but one of us always stops and we take a breather and then start over

2points

Lady Lava 2 years ago

My parents were absolutely not perfect, and I was not the easiest kid to raise, but I have always known they loved me unconditionally, That's so fundamental for a child. And as an adult too, by the way.

2points

Anna Tribe 2 years ago

I wish I'd had that.

2points

Piper L 2 years ago

Me too. *hugs*

2points

christine buckley 2 years ago

Nothing else matters more.

1point

removebeforeflight 2 years ago

Actually my parents are giving me unconditional love. They really love me no matter what. I have graduated with only one degree (I need to mention that I have started three courses instead of one, but was always treating one of them as the primary one). Now I am working as cabin attendant. I love my job af and really into aviation. And guess what? My grandparents always had these high expectations for me, because I was kinda "smart", graduated with "academic achievements" and I "could get really important and serious job" as they see it. They are all mad at me because of my life choice, I am mad at them because they are underestimating what I am actually doing on a daily basis. Though I am sooo thankful to my parents, because they are always on my side. My mother is fighting with her parents all of the time, trying to lead them to the understanding that I am adult and I can live life I want. This unconditional love they give me is the best thing ♥️

1point

Ambry Petersen 2 years ago

Always. Trying to explain this to my small child when she gets jealous because I'm preggo with new baby.

1point

Jan Bowyer 2 years ago

That's the most important thing

1point

#18

My dad always made my brother and I take the lead. He would obviously always know what was going on and would be a few steps ahead of us. If we were in a new city, we would be in charge of working out which bus to take, or if we were cooking, we'd be reading the recipe and telling my dad what to do, etc. It's pretty simple but it meant we were pretty good at doing things ourselves and were already really independent before leaving home.

We were visiting London once and I managed to get on the tube before the doors closed, but my dad did not. I knew we where we had to change so just got off at the stop and waited for the next train with him on. I think most 8 year olds might have freaked out a bit

ThisArsehole Report

Final score:

132points

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Joey Marlin 2 years ago

Love this one! I'd have been that panicking 8 year old and would have loved the confidence brought about by having the knowledge. Teach children how to think and work things out for themselves.

48points

Dapper_Presentation , Lucas Pezeta Report

Katie’s next tip is to talk about difficult subjects with kids. Don’t try to shield them from everything. It can be daunting to bring up topics like school shootings, war and racism with kids who have not seen very much injustice in the world yet, but it is important to bring up sensitive topics in a safe environment. “Talking to kids about global issues and tragic stories actually opens the door to empathic thinking,” Katie explains. “When we hide the truth, we send the message that these things don’t matter. When we engage in meaningful (and age-appropriate) conversation, we plant the seeds of empathy.”

#19

Grown Up Children Share 30 Things They Are Proud Their Parents Taught Them Supported my (then) unusual interests. I was into astronomy as a younger kid and they bought books and telescopes and drove me to/from the local astronomy club at late hours. Later (this was the 80s) they bought me a series of computers which were pretty expensive for the time and for their income. I'm grateful they supported what I was into.

Final score:

117points

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Bgray450 2 years ago

I joined a rock band in high school. My dad was against it (and anything else I loved) but Mom stuck up for me. She drove me to practice when I need it, bought me a couple of sweet 70's rock star outfits, and she would hand me a thermos full of hot tea with honey and lemon for my widdle throat. Thanks Mom, it was a great experience!

51points

#20

I know this will be buried deep in various comments, but well...

I grew up in a not so good financially family. Never starved but didn't had any luxuries too.

I remember deep in my childhood that my folks always took the change from anything they bought and put inside a piggy bank, all year long. They made sure that I saw'em putting the coins there and kept making me hype about Christmas, because the one who will choose the present was me.

I remember going to bank to change the mountain of coins into paper (looking back for me it was A LOT, but seriously it wasn't much) and go to the local toy store to buy something for me. My mother even made sure that we packed it to put on the tree and said that would be more fun to open it with the other children.

The family christmas party always happened on a house of one of our rich relatives (not direct relative, my mother was raised by another family) and the other children always got some insane presents... but none of them had the same impact mine had, at least for me.

The things is, my folks thought me, even if they didn't had the intention at that time that if I saved regularly I will get the things I want and that the value of something is not bounded for what is priced.

This concept alone make me treat money with care, make me do savings regularly, make me plan ahead for almost anything and make me put value in things that doesn't even have a price. My god looking back I kept a bottle cap in my wallet for years because it had friendship value.

Love you mom and dad.
This kept deep imprinted in me. Thanks.

JPDreeamnz Report

Final score:

115points

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Teampandas GF 2 years ago

That was a fabulous way of making you a good time with what was possible

31points

#21

My parents accept everyone as they are. Didn't matter what color your skin is. Gay, straight or something in between. Didn't matter. My parents loved and accepted all of my sister and my friends. Let some of them live with us when things got bad at home. Now we are all grown up and having children... All those kids are calling my mom and dad Grandma and Grandpa. See. Love does win.

firefairyqueen Report

Final score:

110points

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Bgray450 2 years ago

It took my parents a while to accept, but they now love all their family, regardless of color or gender preference. I'm so proud of them.

28points

Another way to foster empathy in your kids is to display it yourself. Seems self-explanatory enough, but with today’s culture of rushing through everything, it can be easy to forget. But being mindful about exhibiting empathy in any situation can go a long way in teaching your kids. “Stay calm when you encounter a frustrating parenting moment. Take the time to process your emotions and triggers before you react to model emotional regulation to your kids,” Katie writes. “Consider their triggers before you respond in anger. Demonstrating empathy in our day-to-day lives helps kids develop an internal sense of right and wrong.”

#22

Made sure I understood the value of empathy and just listening. Dad was a recruiter for the Army and recruits would reach back out to him because he would help them get their school life in order, help get home life in order if they needed it and refused to lie to them about the entire process. He'd drive out of his way to take them to the gym to help them get into shape and would say if they needed anything to call. He complained about it but I could see he was just happy to help people around him.

My mom was literally everyone's mom. I had a lot of friends who parents worked a lot of hours, didn't listen to their teens or just didn't care what was going on in their lives. My house more or less had an open door policy and I would come home so often to see me or my sister's friends just chilling with my mom. They just wanted a mom to listen to them and give them advice and that's what she did, always honest and always truthful. I have a few non-blood related sisters who my mom took in for a time and they always say Happy Mother's Day to her.

My sister and I took their lessons to heart, my sis is a school psych, I'm trying to become a teacher. We try and be sympathetic and listen to the people around us

Sunnyhunnibun Report

Final score:

100points

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Pan.D.Mona 2 years ago

Wish i'd had someone like that in my life aswell

23points

Dutch Swimmer Goes Viral For Super Revealing Trunks During 2024 Olympics: “Is This Legal?”

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#23

Annoy people with questions, not incompetence.

45MinutesOfRoadHead Report

Final score:

95points

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Hobby Hopper 2 years ago

Yes! Better to ask an ignorant question than to remain ignorant!

36points

#24

Let me debate with them on why I wanted something/should be allowed to do something and would change their minds if I made a compelling argument.

anon Report

Final score:

87points

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Jason B. 2 years ago

I do this with my kids, it's wonderful to see their minds work and watch them negotiate for what they want. They win about 40% of the time, negotiate for a partial victory 40% of the time, and still get a solid no only 20% of the time.

33points

Woman Put A Water Fountain With A Camera In Her Yard, Here Are 24 Photos Of Regular Visitors (New Pics)

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Katie goes on to write that taking action can be another way to demonstrate empathy in front of your kids. It does not need to be anything huge or time consuming, though. “Think small. Help carry groceries or rake leaves for an elderly neighbor, for example,” Katie writes. “Building community connections and providing first person help encourages kids to become change-makers.” The more often your kids see you going out of your way to help others or acknowledge their feelings, the more your children will want to do the same.

#25

Talked to / treated me like an adult.

No curfew, no restriction of when I can use my phone or play video games or use the internet, no dedicated time for studying or revision, nothing like that. But if you don't get good results on your exams, that's your fault, and you have to deal with the consequences.

eggshitter Report

Final score:

73points

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Miss Frankfurter 2 years ago

It’s actually a child rearing method called “Love and Logic”. Turned my nephew around very quickly. Every decision has a consequence. Determine ahead of time what they might be. He’s now fantastic at making good decisions. However, if that decision did not work out, It’s probably going to have consequences. Learn from it. And really, it’s not a big deal. Don’t just give up or mope about it. Get going and move on to something else that is a well thought out decision.

28points

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#26

We didn’t have TV growing up. We also went to the library once a week. Because of it I developed an insatiable love of books and reading. For this I will be forever grateful.

eternalrefuge86 Report

Final score:

71points

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Ambry Petersen 2 years ago

We love the library.

13points

HanginWithLucretia , Andrea Piacquadio Report

#27

Grown Up Children Share 30 Things They Are Proud Their Parents Taught Them They instilled a good work ethic. "If you do something half-assed, you'll have to put 2 asses in to fix your f*** ups. If your name is going on it, make it your best." They also always encouraged my creativity- never told me I wasn't capable of something. They always told me I can accomplish anything I want as long as I put effort into it. My parental units are awesome.

Final score:

69points

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aj B 2 years ago

Wish this was still good advice here in the greatest dystopia in the world. Unfortunately ask the bank teller about what happened when he put in his best efforts and they realized they could get a full days work in half the time out of him. His coworker warned him not to do so much and is still making a full time paycheck. Ask anyone who does put their best effort into a corporate job what their reward was and most will say "more work, less hours, less pay."

12points

Woman Moves Out Of Parents' Home After They Asked Her To Give Her Space To Brother, They Freak Out

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We hope this list is reminding you of all of the great things your parents instilled in you. Whether you have kids of your own or not, remember that leading by example is a powerful thing. The next time you’re around a friend or family member’s kid, see if you can do something to be a great role model. Even a small encounter can be meaningful for them. Remember to upvote all of your favorite replies on this list, and then feel free to share in the comments what the most impactful thing your parents taught you was.

#28

Independence.. no helicopter parenting here, just had certain expectations of me and allowed me the freedom to meet them without coddling.

Follow up: integrity. We do the right thing because it's the right thing to do. Dont pay attention to what so-and-so is doing, focus on yourself and your own conscience

ZonieShark Report

Final score:

69points

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Marilyn Russell 2 years ago

We were left to our own devices a lot as kids and we’re free range.

11points

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#29

Taught me the importance of quality duct tape.

Imbalancedone Report

Final score:

58points

POST

BadCat 2 years ago

LOL Is this a Red Green reference?

27points

#30

They treated me like an adult - never belittled what I was feeling or what was meaningful to me, and explained practicalities of life when need be. "Because I said so" was NOT a common phrase. Also, they were the most supportive parents anyone could ask for, and they had the time to get involved with the things I did - my dad taught me scientific wonder and mentored my robotics team, my mom volunteered for all my theatre and music stuff while simultaneously serving on school boards, PTOs, Friends of Music, curriculum committees, and about a hundred other things. They are just incredible people.

nernthestrudel Report

Final score:

56points

POST

Duane Ringlein 2 years ago

A few good, but also a lot bad. My Dad was an example of working hard, while my Mom was a stay at home Mom, that made sure everyone had their own tasks to accomplish in the home. But as I got older (am now 70) I finally figured out my Dad was a closet racist, and when I got married, that my Mom was very controlling. This led me to always be open to my daughter, allowing her to embrace everyone, and never interfere in her life.

23points

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#31

My mum taught me and my brothers to take care of ourselves domestically by time we were 16. At that point we were essentially tenants, responsible for our own needs and expected to contribute to the household. My dad gave us a strong impression of what would be expected of us in the workplace and instilled a sense of pragmatism that last a lifetime.

You only have a few years to prepare your children for the world. It's basic training before they enter the battlefield. You want them to survive, to succeed. I'm a parent myself now, I understand.

HeyL_s8_10 Report

Final score:

12points

POST

#32

Homeschooling me and my siblings. We all have learning disabilities and I've learned from becoming a teacher in the same area as an adult that there's no way any of us would've done well. There's still not enough help/individualized care and I'm 20 now. 15 years ago it likely would've been a lot worse.

Imaskinnybitchyall Report

Final score:

11points

POST

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#33

Volunteering from a young age. I didn't have a job until 18 (my mom said getting a good education was my job) but I volunteered weekly from the age of 10. In Ontario you have to volunteer 40 hours throughout high school, and I had logged nearly 400 hours over those 4 years, and I didn't even submit them all. I have a lot of pride in the work I do as a result and can't understand when people do a half-assed job. It's definitely something I'm going to do with my own kids.

xaefizz Report

Final score:

10points

POST

#34

They created an environment in our house that encouraged academics and learning and hard work. They read to me every day when I was a kid. My mom always had a book on hand to read and started taking me on her weekly trips to the library. My dad was at work before I woke up every morning no matter how beat up or run down he was feeling (he was a carpenter - manual labor sucks as a career, y'all). My brother and sisters are a lot older than me so I also had a lot of positive role models as far as schoolwork, too. It never occurred to me to NOT try hard in school and do my homework - that just wasn't how it was done! So very early my family ingrained a lot of positive habits into my behavior and it has helped me get good grades which prepared me for a good career, etc.

namkap Report

Final score:

9points

POST

#35

TRAVEL! - Family vacations - and not to the *same* places, year in, year out, but to all kinds of different events/festivals, hell, even marched with my Mom at a Union rally! Going with them to volunteer with the poor in Appalachia or visiting the posh of Manhattan, that, more than anything, showed me that there was just SO MUCH MORE to life. As a young girl, they never forced me into being a 'girl's girl,' but they made sure I knew proper manners (yeah, charm school) so I could fit in where ever I decided to land

casualLogic Report

Final score:

9points

POST

#36

Never forced me to do something but gave me so many opportunities.

CrispyBaconAndSyrup Report

Final score:

8points

POST

#37

They pushed me into basketball and sports in general, even though I wanted to quit every other weekend.

I was pretty fat as a kid and I naturally didn't like it at all at first, but it ended up being great for me, both for health reasons and for socializing. The latter was also very important, cause I had no long-lasting friends since my parents moved every year and I always had to change schools.

I_hate_traveling Report

Final score:

8points

POST

#38

Controversial one but as a kid but don't start any physical violence but if someone punches you, punch them back.

I seemed to be targeted for bullying and violence in school and this helped. As soon as someone knows you will fight back, 9/10 will give up.

Definitely different as an adult though. As an adult I'd rather just avoid any physical violence entirely because the chances are, if they are getting into physical violence, they probably don't have a lot to lose and you don't want to get stabbed or something.

SlightlyIncandescent Report

Final score:

7points

POST

#39

I had a lot of freedom but only in return of informations about my life. E.g. I was allowed to stay out longer if my mom knew with whom I would be out and I could stay out even longer if the person brought me home.

I never really got a punishment for bad grades because my mom said it's my future/degree that I ruin and not hers so it's in my hands to get better at school.

Even tho my brothers and I had a lot of stuff like consoles, toys, anything I wouldn't consider us spoiled in any way, in fact my mom taught me pretty well how to handle my money and what to look for when shopping.

I never needed to be afraid of her in any way and I really appreciate it!

Joubachi Report

Final score:

7points

POST

#40

Perhaps the most important thing my parents did for me was stimulating my imagination ... and not only that, they were more than happy (for a while, anyway) to hear about the bizarre concepts that I came up with, or about I had special dreams (My mother finally pushed me to start recording my conversations, which was probably a good call for all participants).

elanaviles Report

Final score:

6points

POST

#41

My parents really encouraged me to have jobs in high school and I’m grateful for it. I had some friends who weren’t allowed to have a job bc it would distract them from school, and I always thought that was a little naive of the parents.

robertsonliv Report

Final score:

5points

POST

Huddo's sister 2 years ago

I never wanted (or needed to) have a job while in high school (except occasional babysitting) because I couldn't be bothered adding to my workload. After getting diagnosed with fibromyalgia in my 20s it makes sense why I was always tired in my tens :)

1point

Howdy, I'm Adelaide! I'm originally from Texas, but after graduating from university with an acting degree, I relocated to sunny Los Angeles for a while. I then got a serious bite from the travel bug and found myself moving to Sweden and England before settling in Lithuania about two years ago. I'm passionate about animal welfare, sustainability and eating delicious food. But as you can see, I cover a wide range of topics including drama, internet trends and hilarious memes. I can easily be won over with a Seinfeld reference, vegan pastry or glass of fresh cold brew. And during my free time, I can usually be seen strolling through a park, playing tennis or baking something tasty.

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As a Visual Editor at Bored Panda, I indulge in the joy of curating delightful content, from adorable pet photos to hilarious memes, all while nurturing my wanderlust and continuously seeking new adventures and interests—sometimes thrilling, sometimes daunting, but always exciting!

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What do you think ?

POST

Rens 2 years ago

My parents taught me how not to be like them.

14points

2x4b523p 2 years ago

My father was raging alcoholic and mom had enough of her own problems. If they taught me anything it was to take care of myself and never expect anyone to have your back. I envied kids with supportive and helpful parents growing up, but my upbringing proved somehow useful in today’s world.

12points

DonS 2 years ago

Couple of things: 1. Stay away from religions. And my studies in History just reinforced that. I respect everyone religions, but do not try to rope me into one. 2. Always looked at the second part of a phrase to know the real intentions of a politician. For example, "We will put politics in place to protect the environment while maintaining economic growth." It means, they will put in place politics to increase the economic growth and if the environment is in the way, well that's too bad.

5points

Miss Frankfurter 2 years ago (edited)

We had something called Gripe nights. Usually a Friday evening so we had the weekend to contemplate what got said. Anyone could call one, including me, if there was an issue they thought seriously needing to be brought up. In the meantime the other two would think if they had anything to bring up to discuss. After dinner the dishes were done and tv turned off. If you had to write it down, do so and bring it. At the beginning ground rules that must be followed by ALL were reviewed. The person who called it started. One of the rules was to actually listen to what that person had to say. Honestly think about it from their point of view. The others would review what was said, then say what their thoughts on it were. When someone , including me, had an absolutely valid point, together we worked to come up with a solution we committed ourselves to. If it wasn’t working out or being followed another meeting was called.

3points

Miss Frankfurter 2 years ago (edited)

Part 2. I knew I could freely speak up about an issue. We followed ground rules during the meeting. LISTEN and genuinely look at it from the OTHER person’s point of view. THINK about what was said. Discuss in inside voices. Sometimes my parents would need to say “no”. It was thoroughly explained to me their reasons. Sometimes what I was saying was quite valid and we’d figure out how they could change what they were doing. They would. This worked so well. It saved us from confrontations, me being a stubborn teen. Learned basic diplomacy.

3points

Blackadams 2 years ago

I had to learn everything myself

2points

Adam Heath 2 years ago

Only thing I can think of is...if you are changing a tyre on the car, put the tyre you just took off UNDER THE CAR BEHIND THE JACK. If the jack fails, the tyre will prop the car up and save you a hand/finger/life (I was once under the car working and accidentally clicked it into neutral, car rolled off the jack. Would have died if not for the tyre)

1point

Brenda 2 years ago

Just by example, my parents showed us that everyone should only be judged by their actions. I give everyone a chance and try to find the good in people. I've been burned a few times, but mostly people are good. My kids friends all came to me to talk, many lived with us at some point. My oldest "son " lived with us for just over 5 years. He taught me so much (he is Muslim and I learned a lot about the religion). Love him to pieces and hear from him about 2x a month

1point

A.D 2 years ago

I learned how to not behave and how to keep calm in situations. I come from a long line of hysterical, people pleasing women

1point

Elise Pimenta 2 years ago

My mom taught me to not stress myself over why other people think they way they do because I will never be able to think that way. She told me this after I was venting to her one day about what other people were thinking and why they think and do the things they do. She told me to not stress myself out because I will never be able to think or do the things other people do. This is the best advice she has ever given to me and something I repeat back to myself on a regular basis.

1point

Foxxy (The Original) 2 years ago

In all honesty my parents were decent. Of course they had flaws and some things I learnt not to do from them but as a whole they were good parents. I am extremely grateful for that. My brothers and I have never been in trouble with the law, done hard drugs (marijuana the worst). I am the only one that has ever smoked cigarettes (now quit), we are all generally kind and often help others. So I think we turned out pretty well, except 2 of us suffer significant mental health issues.

1point

Alicia Davidson 2 years ago

My parents always taught us that we could be whatever we wanted to be (for careers) but to also have a plan. Would we be able to support ourselves with it; would we be able to support a family with it; what direction do we want to go with the job; etc.? They would sit us down and discuss how much the average pay was for our specific career, how much learning we needed, would we need loans for school and how much and could we reasonably pay that off? It really made us think. My brother went to a local trade school and is now an electrician, supporting his child and stay at home wife. I opted for a private college and took out loans, but I'm a nurse and am making enough to pay the loans back. My sister just started college; she has a bunch of scholarships to help pay for her schooling and is trying to avoid loans because she knows that her career path won't support it. She's hoping to be a forest ranger.

0points

Trish Hermes 2 years ago

Back in the 50s dads made the money and moms took care of the kids. Except on our house. Dad changed diapers, took us on outings to give mom a much needed break. Dad was on the fast track at work but had to travel at least a week a month. He called home only to discover that he'd missed a milestone. He decided he didn't become a father to miss actually being a father. Took himself off the track pretty much committing career suicide. He'd get home by 5:30 to spend 30 minutes playing catch before dinner. Best thing he did was the dishes with us. We each had a week with him washing, us drying. No one else was allowed in the kitchen but us. Those 30 minutes were a special bonding time to share time together. I see the fathers my brothers have become because he modeled true parenting.

0points

Rachel 2 years ago

Whenever someone would call me names or make fun of me she would tell me that we are all somebody's weirdo

0points

Candice 2 years ago

Best thing that my parents taught me is that you have to work hard for what you want. They would remind us that they were only required to provide for our needs, anything outside of that, was a added bonus/privilege. Nobody owes you anything, so if you want something, work to get it. This helped me be independent and even extremely ambitious at times. As a woman, I take pride in the fact that I am completely self-sufficient. Only downside, without balance, it can cause problems in a relationship. Men like to feel needed, so it’s not good if your words and actions constantly remind them that they’re not.

0points

Markus It/Its 2 years ago

My parents taught me that life is too short to spend your time worrying about the opinions of others. I do, from time to time, but as a whole I simply do not care what others think of me. I'm not an adult yet, which is what's most important about learning this. I don't care if people think I'm fat or thin, ugly or pretty, my style funky or horrible. If it makes me happy, then why should it matter to me what others think about it?

0points

Gozer LeGozerian 2 years ago

Also known as "adults"

0points

Melissa Jischke 2 years ago

My parents had a 68 firebird 400. Around the time my older sister would have been learning how to drive, my dad drove us in the 68 all the way in the country and took off. He took her all the way up to 130mph to teach us what not to do. The lesson was that even the best drivers (or mechanics) have to be cautious about the dangers of an automobile. Scared the heck out of us. But a great life lesson taken into account. Especially when he gave me the car the night I graduated high school. I miss that car, and my parents.

0points

A.D 2 years ago

You do understand that was blatant child endangerment

0points

Patti Vance 2 years ago

was taught to be independent but that does have some backlash because it also made it difficult to ask for help sometimes. other than that they gave me the ability to make decisions but also to live with consequences of my decisions. if there was a party they drove me w/caveat that i called for a ride, not get in car w/someone who was drinking & that i walk out under my own power-walk, not stumble. as for "punishment" when i did do something wrong-no hitting, screaming, etc. but, their "i'm so disappointed in you" was enough to crush me. there were some creative things like when i took advantage of driving outside my "range". removed distributer wires & gave me manual to figure out how to put them back correctly. all in all, i think they did great as i experienced most of what teens wanted to do that was taboo but figured out quickly that the "excitement" of doing something forbidden was fun- it was just good common sense. still have my dad but miss mom dearly

0points

Susie Kamper 2 years ago

My parents raised us to be humans and not boy/girl. My brother takes so good care of his skin and clothes and I can fix all kinds of mechanics. Well we both can. None of us turned up gay.

0points

ADHORTATOR 2 years ago

my mother took my every week to the library, she made me love books

0points

POST

Rens 2 years ago

My parents taught me how not to be like them.

14points

2x4b523p 2 years ago

12points

DonS 2 years ago

5points

Miss Frankfurter 2 years ago (edited)

3points

Miss Frankfurter 2 years ago (edited)

3points

Blackadams 2 years ago

I had to learn everything myself

2points

Adam Heath 2 years ago

1point

Brenda 2 years ago

1point

A.D 2 years ago

I learned how to not behave and how to keep calm in situations. I come from a long line of hysterical, people pleasing women

1point

Elise Pimenta 2 years ago

1point

Foxxy (The Original) 2 years ago

1point

Alicia Davidson 2 years ago

0points

Trish Hermes 2 years ago

0points

Rachel 2 years ago

Whenever someone would call me names or make fun of me she would tell me that we are all somebody's weirdo

0points

Candice 2 years ago

0points

Markus It/Its 2 years ago

0points

Gozer LeGozerian 2 years ago

Also known as "adults"

0points

Melissa Jischke 2 years ago

0points

A.D 2 years ago

You do understand that was blatant child endangerment

0points