10 Poor Habits That Children Get From Their Parents

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Kids are like little mirrors—they reflect what they see, especially from their parents. While most of us try to be the best role models we can, it’s easy to let a few not-so-great habits slip through. Whether it’s skipping workouts or procrastinating on chores, these behaviors often get passed on without us even realizing it. The good news? Small changes can have a big impact. Here are ten common poor habits kids pick up from parents and how you can turn them into teachable moments.

Poor Eating Habits

If chips and cookies are your go-to snacks, chances are your kids are reaching for the same thing. Eating on the run or skipping meals can also set a pattern for unhealthy choices.

What You Can Do

• Stock up on fruits, veggies, and healthier snacks.
• Cook meals together—it’s fun, and kids are more likely to try foods they help make.
• Need help planning meals? Check out this handy Meal Prep Made Easy Guide for inspiration.

Too Much Screen Time

Let’s face it—screens are everywhere. If you’re constantly scrolling through your phone or glued to Netflix, your kids are bound to follow suit.

How to Set Boundaries

• Declare certain times or places (like the dinner table) screen-free zones.
• Schedule family time with activities that don’t involve a screen, like puzzles or walks.
• Be consistent with your own screen limits to set the example.

Procrastination

“Eh, I’ll do it later.” Sound familiar? Procrastinating on chores, bills, or errands can teach kids that it’s okay to delay responsibilities.

How to Break the Habit

• Tackle tasks together and make it fun—think race-against-the-clock cleanups.
• Show kids how to use simple tools like a to-do list or calendar.
• Celebrate wins, even if they’re small, like finishing homework early.

Negative Self-Talk

Saying things like “I can’t believe how stupid I am” might seem harmless, but kids soak it up. Before you know it, they might start doubting themselves, too.

Try This Instead

• Speak kindly about yourself, even when you mess up.
• Encourage kids to focus on what they’re good at, not just what they struggle with.
• Make it a point to celebrate mistakes as part of learning.

Money Habits That Don’t Add Up

If you’re a “spend first, figure it out later” type, your kids are probably watching. Impulse buys and skipping budgeting conversations teach them the wrong lessons about money.

How to Teach Smart Spending

• Involve kids in simple money tasks, like saving up for a treat.
• Talk about the importance of budgeting in a way they’ll understand.
• Try a resource like Smart Money Habits for Kids to make learning about money fun.

Skipping Exercise

If you’re not moving, chances are your kids aren’t either. A sedentary lifestyle can easily become the norm.

Get Moving Together

• Make exercise a family activity, like weekend hikes or bike rides.
• Turn on some music and dance around the living room—it counts as exercise!
• Celebrate staying active with rewards like a family picnic or a new outdoor game.

Stress Overload

If you’re quick to yell, panic, or shut down when stressed, your kids are likely to pick up on it. Stress management is one of the most important skills you can model.

Show Calm in Chaos

• Practice mindfulness or deep breathing as a family.
• Talk openly about how you handle stress—it’s okay to admit you’re working on it too!
• Create a calming routine for everyone, like bedtime wind-downs or quiet morning moments.

Lack of Empathy

When kids don’t see empathy in action, they might grow up struggling to understand or care about others’ feelings.

Make Empathy a Family Value

• Teach kids to notice and name their feelings—and others’.
• Volunteer as a family to help those in need.
• Show kindness in everyday situations, like helping a neighbor or thanking a cashier.

Being Overly Critical

Parents who constantly nitpick their own flaws—or their kids’—may unintentionally teach perfectionism or low self-esteem.

Build Confidence Instead

• Praise kids for their efforts, not just results.
• Be kind to yourself when talking about your own mistakes.
• Focus on progress, not perfection, in everyone’s goals.

Sticking to Comfort Zones

If you avoid trying new things or resist change, kids might learn to fear the unknown instead of embracing it.

Encourage Growth Together

• Share your own experiences when you try something new, even if it’s hard.
• Explore activities outside of your usual routine as a family.
• Celebrate every little step toward growth, no matter how small.

Breaking these habits takes time, but it’s so worth it. The effort you put into modeling positive behaviors now can help your kids grow into confident, resilient, and well-rounded adults. Remember, no parent is perfect—it’s all about progress, not perfection.