Like father like son, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree... As the previous two proverbs show, there is no shadow of a doubt that the adults have an influence on the youngsters. The present essay aims to explore the ways in which adults can have an influence on how younger people behave. As parents, teachers, educators and psychologists perfectly know, people are constantly learning and absorbing information from the world around them. This means that adults play a crucial role and have a responsibility in shaping their behaviour. The first way in which adults can shape the youngsters' behaviour is by giving clear and consistent rules. Rules can build a sense of security by defining expectations and boundaries. Setting rules is especially important for young children; in fact, they are still developing the sense of right and wrong. However, rules alone are not enough. The youngsters learn greatly by observing and imitating adults. Even if they sometimes don’t seem to listen, they pay much attention to the people they admire and try to behave like them. Consequently, when adults demonstrate the values they care for through their actions, they make a profound effect on young people. Greater than just stating a rule. For example, a teacher who treats students with respect and kindness conveys the importance of empathy and understanding, a parent who regularly volunteers shows how much they care of the community they are part of. In conclusion, clear and consistent rules are essential for adults to influence young people. But it is impossible to do without role models because actions speak much more than words.