Michael Phelps likes to smoke...

Originally Posted by bazookajoe

I agree that to some degree kids choose their own role models, but we're not helpless. Since society reinforces an unhealthy regard for celebrity, we as parents have to infuse some sense of proportion to help our kids mange their expectations. My kids know that it's ok to be in awe of and even try to emulate the accomplishments of their favorite athletes, but also that they're only people, far from perfect, and their personal lives are just as prone to missteps as anyone's. I have more confidence in my ability to help my kids deal with reality than I do in an athlete's ability to avoid temptation. Maybe they can't help being role models, but we can temper the extent of it with our kids.

Highly agree with my statement!