Dads who raise boys who respect. At HFVIN we believe that the best way to keep children safe from family violence is to prevent violence occurring in the first place. This happens when we break the cycle, and create healthy safe homes where parents (whether together or not) demonstrate respect for each other Children learn best by following what they see in their own environment. All parents have a role to play in this, but as we head towards White Ribbon Day, encouraging men to take a stand against violence against women, weW be looking at the role dads play in our whanau. Dads have a massive impact- on kid's lives and for all of New Zealand Dad's that are respectful show their kids how to be respectful themselves This mears safer, happier families and stronger communities and a wealthier more peaceful country Each week we'll highlight how to teach respect to kids depending on their age Kids Under 5 years old Your kids need different things from you, depending on their age, If you treat them with respect right from the start, it will make it easier later on. As they grow, you'll have to change what you do to suit where they're at. Here are some suggestions for what your kids might need in their early years. Love u 4ever. Always be clear that you love them, no matter what Say it. Encourage your kids to tell you how they feel, Show me. Teach them to express their anger, fear or hurt feelings, without taking it out on others. Find a way. Work together to find solutions that everyone is happy with. Get them to feel respected. Ask them how it feels when they're treated respectfully, or not. Be you. Encourage them to be themselves. Treat your sons and daughters the same -avoid the blue for boys, pink for girls trap. Help your kids speak up for what they want and express their feelings. Check your own messages to them about how boys and girls should act You = me. Even though men and women are different and sometimes do different things, both have equal value. Demonstrate this around your home and in the way you treat your sons a Toolbox for Dads www.whiteribbon.org.nz