Boston’s first black officer receives his long-overdue honors
Just as the bagpipes began, the drill sergeant shouted, “Ten-hut!’’ Thirty-seven rows, four police officers in each, stood at attention. It was their day off, a sunny Saturday morning, but they were up and in uniform to pay respects to a fellow officer, whom, until recently, almost no one knew existed. Bagpipe - Police officer - Boston - Law Enforcement - Law

These are changing times. The family dynamic is being redefined with each passing generation. Parents constantly trying to find the time and energy to balance work and family, let alone trying to find a little rest and relaxation. All the while the most important people in our world's future seem to be relegated to television parenting, and video game baby sitting.

Remember what it was like when we were young. There was so much to do. I couldn't imagine wanting to sit on the couch all day and watch cartoons. Not that I could anyway with the limited number of shows on TV back then. I remember my next door neighbor's father getting out the garden hose and making an ice rink in the backyard every single winter. And he wasn't the only one. There were a few of them. Boy did that ever bring countless hours of joy and pleasure to the children in the neighborhood. Memories that linger today.

In our hectic and busy worlds we forget the valuable impressions we can leave our children with just a little effort and time. Just as we plan and schedule appointments, we should be scheduling time for our children. Do something active with them. Being active in their lives makes them feel appreciated, and respected. Don't plan everything too much. Allow yourself the opportunity to ask questions of what they may like to do. Do what they want to do.Then have fun and stay positive!

Another thing you could do is involved them in your hobbies. I can't count the number of people I know who learned a certain skill or trade from their fathers shop he had in the garage. Lifes lessons are best learned at home. You'd be surprised how much a child tunes in on when watching their parents enthusiasm. It's infectious. So share it.

Remember while you're out enjoying your time with your children they can also pick up your bad habits too. Try to remember to use appropriate language for their age. Make sure if you need to correct or discipline them you use a gentle hand. Just as they can learn from our joys they can learn how to cope with certain situations by our poor judgment and behaviour. Listen to yourself. Make sure your words don't cut like criticism, but empower in encouragement. We all make mistakes. Let them know that it's OK, but it's more important to try again.

In whatever you do remember they're always watching. Even when you think they're not. You may close the door and have an argument with your spouse, but they're still listening. If you want your children to live a good life with those principles you  wish to instill, then you are going to have to live those principles yourself. Success breeds success. All your traits, whether it be positive or negative will affect your childs ability to conduct themselves as they get older. Be mindful of who you are, and the relationship you have with your children. You ARE their biggest role model. Make it count.

Elliot Zovighian is the owner of EZLifestyles and is a personal coach, writer, speaker and father from Toronto Canada who is committed to helping those live easier happier lives.

Elliot Zovighian is a life coach, speaker, author, blogger is the owner of EZ Lifestyles, a life coaching company from Toronto, Canada. His daily blog offers articles and advice on such subjects as life skills, work and career, relationships, parenting, featured videos and more. http://www.ezlifestyles.ca