What gets passed down to kids is important. We each have a part to play in making sure kids have good examples to follow as they grow up. All of us are role models because kids learn from watching what all of us do. They depend on us to show them how to get along. There are lots of little things parents, teachers, volunteers, neighbors, and others can do to make a big difference.

In what kind of home, neighborhood, and community do you want to live? If we want peaceful neighborhoods and healthier lifestyles, we must do some thing to curb violence and other harmful trends. Whether you're single or married, young or old you can do something to make a positive difference for individuals and families in your neighborhood and community. You can start with something as simple as completing this checklist. Remember, the more often kids see positive behaviors, such as people being friendly and cooperative, the more likely it is they'll copy them.

Have you ever thought about what kids might be learning from you? Do you promote harm or violence of any kind? Be sure you're doing all that you can to eliminate violence in your own home and neighborhood. Ask yourself: In what ways do I tolerate or promote violence? Use the list below to check your attitudes and actions.

I realize how my own beliefs about violence inflence my behavior and what I contribute to kids' learning.
Because I draw from my own experiences when I interact with others, I keep in mind that I am affected by what I see and hear each day.
I take time to find out what the messages are in books I read to children and stories I tell kids.
I take the time to find out what kids think of stories they hear and read. This will help me help them learn to cope and solve problems.
I am careful not to over-expose children to violent or adult-rated movies.
I am careful not to use my size, age, and voice to control or intimidate kids.
I avoid using expressions and words of violence with my partner, children, and others.
I am careful to minimize the amount of time, money and attention I give to movies and other forms of entertainment which show violence.
I care about the messages my family gets when I watch and say I enjoy violent television shows.
I avoid exposing family members to suggestions of violence. For example, I don't buy toys designed for violent uses, such as guns.