Plan how you can weave your children into your social life and knit yourself into their lives. Be a good example. In fact, you can't avoid being an example to your children, whether good or bad. Being a good example, then, is probably your most important job. Develop an ear and an eye for what your children are absorbing.
Children are like sponges.
Much of what they take in has to do with moral values and character. As parents, we must control the ideas and images which are influencing our children. Use the language of character. Children cannot develop a moral compass unless people around them use the clear, sharp language of right and wrong. Punish with a loving heart.