Showing respect is a sophisticated communication skill. It is
based on a guiding belief in the importance of expressing consideration
for others. Outlined below are tips for teaching respect.
Parents need to be patient; learning respect takes time.
Show respect to your growing child through all of your daily ups
and downs together, even when setting a limit or giving a consequence
for misbehavior.
Begin early to teach your child about the feelings, ideas, and
opinions of others; find opportunities every day to repeat these
messages to your child as she grows.
Meet respectful behavior with praise and recognition; privately
express disappointment and disapproval to your child when you observe
your child exhibiting disrespectful behavior.
Talk with your child in advance about how to ask questions of a
teacher; how to behave during church; how to act at a play, concert, or
birthday party; and so forth. Help your child plan how to show
respect in these and other situations.
Help your child learn that everyone has different likes and
dislikes. Fun ways to help your child learn about how people are
different include going to museums, listening to a variety of music
styles, and tasting food from different cultures. Teach your
child to show respect for individual preferences.
Be a good role model by showing respect in your daily interactions with others.
Copyright 2000 by Bobbi Conner. Reprinted from the book Everyday Opportunities for Extraordinary Parenting with permission of its publisher, Sourcebooks, Inc.
