How to bring in Mr.Rogers' values into your own family

Mr. Rogers was all about “family and community values” and “role modeling” for those who watched his iconic show. With the release of the nostalgic documentary, Won't you be my neighbor?, it's important to take the time to relook at the values and see how you can incorporate them into your everyday life. 

Family Values

All families operate on a series of values that provide a base for the family.  They can vary from positive to somewhat less positive in nature.  For example, family values could include:

Respect for others, respect for elders, acceptance, religious beliefs, charity, everyone helps

How these are passed along to children or other members can be either conscious or modeled. 

Teaching Values

Some values that are strong for family members may be seen in actions like; - membership in organizations or institutions (Church/ Synagogue/ Mosque, Rotary, School Council, etc.); - family based activities organized to get the message and give the message ( food bank, drop clothes for the poor, share toys with needy at Christmas, etc.);  and,  allocation of family resources (time, money) to support these values (cut older neighbour lawn, help shovel the walk, etc.).  At times the transmission of values to children can be both conscious and just through our actions.

Have a look at what those family values may be and the family values of your own family.  Question those that may be a bit uncomfortable.  Reinforce the positive through actions and role modelling that may encourage those you love for a better world.