By Cynthia Martin

Whether you’re a mom, dad, grandparent, guardian, or caregiver, know this: the way you show up matters. How you live, respond, teach, and care becomes the foundation for how your child will one day live her own life.

Whether you work outside the home or not, parenting is a full-time job. And while it may not come with a title or a paycheck, the impact you have on your child is powerful and long-lasting. You are your child’s first and most important teacher, role model, and support system.

Your presence matters — at every stage.

From the moment your child is born, she looks to you for safety, encouragement, and connection. Your attention, even in the smallest moments, makes a huge difference. For example:

• Encouraging her to crawl and explore.

• Comforting her when she cries, helping her feel secure.

• Celebrating small accomplishments like putting toys away.

• Reading the same book over and over—because it makes her feel close to you.

• Praising her for sharing with a friend.

• Playing in the bath with measuring cups or cheering her on at the playground.

• Being there after school to show consistency and care.

• Kissing her goodnight and reminding her she’s loved.

• Recognize her new skills as she rides a new bike or plays on bars.

These seemingly small acts build trust, confidence, and emotional security.

As they grow

As children enter adolescence, their growing independence can sometimes feel like rejection. But don’t be fooled — your influence still matters a lot.

Your child still listens, even when he pretends not to.

He still observes and imitates you, even while testing boundaries.

That means your actions still teach.

Let her see you reading, so she sees that learning never stops.

Let him hear you solve problems, so he knows how to navigate challenges.

Let them see fairness, honesty and empathy in your action — especially in the everyday moments, like pointing out a missed charge at the store or helping a neighbor in need.

Talk with your child about your civic choices — like why voting matters.

Model healthy habits and respectful relationships.

Demonstrate to her what being a wife and mother is all about.

These real-life examples speak louder than lectures.

You shape more than you think. You may not be able to control everything your child experiences, but your influence is greater than you realize. You help shape:

Whether he feels loved and valued.

Whether she becomes a reader.

Whether he eats well, sleeps enough, and behaves appropriately.

Whether she feels confident and learns to accept people who are different from her.

Whether he sees himself as someone capable of doing well in school and in life.

Your parenting style can’t change who your child is — but it profoundly affects how they grow.

You are the model

Your child’s first lessons in love, respect, resilience and responsibility don’t come from school or media. They come from home, from you.

This isn’t just a role. It’s the most important job you’ll ever have.

Do it with intention. Do it with love. And never, ever underestimate your impact.