Ok, time to think back to science class. I am teaching about traits in science class this week. It always amazes me when I look into the eyes of my children and see myself looking back at me. Inherited traits are those things that you are born with obviously. Learned traits are a totally different ballgame. Many people say that I have two little versions of me running around. My daughters are exactly 6 years and 2 days apart. When I look at their baby pictures, it is hard to tell them apart. They share many of my physical traits for sure, but today's lesson got me thinking about what learned traits that I've actually passed on to my children.
Of course my hope is that I would only pass along my positive traits, however I know that they have "learned" some of my not so desirable traits too. One lesson that I have stressed to my children is to never give up on a task that is difficult or new. Try it out and then make your decision. I think that it has caught on with my oldest daughter. She entered her first triathlon when she was 9. She is naturally athletic (inherited) but also possess a crazy "let's do this" kind of spirit. (learned? or inherited?) Hmmm I'd like to think both. My point is that as an parent and teacher, I'm given the responsibility of passing along some pretty powerful learned behaviors.
Of course my hope is that I would only pass along my positive traits, however I know that they have "learned" some of my not so desirable traits too. One lesson that I have stressed to my children is to never give up on a task that is difficult or new. Try it out and then make your decision. I think that it has caught on with my oldest daughter. She entered her first triathlon when she was 9. She is naturally athletic (inherited) but also possess a crazy "let's do this" kind of spirit. (learned? or inherited?) Hmmm I'd like to think both. My point is that as an parent and teacher, I'm given the responsibility of passing along some pretty powerful learned behaviors.
I
I love this picture from her triathlon. The look of determination is one that is familiar to me too. It's that never give up face that I hope I possess when running. I love that she never gave up during her race. She was first out of the open water swim, then fell behind in the biking, then kicked it in during the run. I love that her drive to finish strong was evident to all. It was a proud moment for me. Not because she got first, but because she did not give up. What made me extremely proud was that she congratulated the girl who she passed on a great race. (inherited or learned?) Your children are a reflection of you. At times it is hard to admit that and then there are those moments when you realize that you aren't doing such a bad job after all.
What are you passing along?
Em
This is really interesting. I have a 9 month old and I'm often wondering how much of what she does is influenced by the way I a bringing her up and how much of it is genetic.
ReplyDeleteThank you Natalie Ray. I believe that it's a mix of both. I'm adopted and my sister is not, yet we share a lot of similarities which would indicate environmental influences or learned behavior. I'm sure you will enjoy seeing your daughter's personality develop as she grows into a toddler. Enjoy!
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