Yesterday I  wrote about  what mental models are here.

(I went with a cute picture of a dog, above. Adding to my “latticework of models”–not all dogs chasing runners are vicious–some are adorably curious!)

The author of Atomic Habits, James Clear,  finishes with:

“The best mental models are the ideas with the most utility. They are broadly useful in daily life. Understanding these concepts will help you make wiser choices and take better actions. This is why developing a broad base of mental models is critical for anyone interested in thinking clearly, rationally, and effectively.”

My husband gave me a good start with the mental model of escaping from angry animals. I was listening intently to him, because of the closeness of the dangerous dog. If I want to increase my chances of getting away from future hounds, I could watch people’s experiences on youtube.com, I could ask friends and family what their experiences are in getting away safely, I could even practice with a friend’s  playful dog so I could be better prepared in those early morning hours. Anything, to build my latticework of models.

The important thing to remember is  how your child is impacted by your stories, deep questions and interest. How you help build their latticework of models, matters.

These days, just hearing about the Gospel of Jesus Christ is not enough. We, as parents, have a great deal to do with how deep these principles of truth go as we broadcast seeds far and wide in our child’s outer experiences and inner life. It is a lengthy planting, and sometimes we don’t see the harvest for year and years. Remember that the sequencing is important. These seeds will have more impact if you are a good example of what your are trying to teach. Not perfect, by any stretch, but trying to be the person you want your child to be.

What mental models  with the “most utility”  have you been focusing on lately, to teach your children goodness?