One of the most important things you can teach your child is respect.

 

            Keep in mind that respect is not the same as obedience. Children might obey because they are afraid. If they respect you, they will obey because they know you want what is best for them.

           

            The best way to teach respect is to show respect. When a child experiences respect, he knows what it feels like and begins to understand how important it is.

Keep in mind the saying,” Do not do unto others what you do not like others do unto you.

Respect is an attitude. Being respectful helps a child succeed in life. If children donot   have respect for peers, authority, or themselves, it is almost impossible for them to succeed.

 

            A respectful child takes care of belongings and responsibilities, and a respectful child gets along with peers.

 

            Schools teach children about respect, but parents have the most influence on how respectful children become. Until children show respect at home, it is unlikely they will show it anywhere else.

 

How can you show respect to your child?

 

Be Honest—-if you do something wrong, admit it and apologize.

Be Positive—Do not be embarrass, insult or make fun of your children. Compliment on them.

Be Trusting—–Let your child make choices and take responsibility.

Be Fair—– Listen to your child’s side of the story before reaching a conclusion.

Be Polite— Use “PLEASE”  and “THANK YOU”. Knock before entering your child’s room.

Be Reliable—Keep promises. Show your child that you meanwhat you say.

Be a Good Listener—-Give your child your full attention.

 

            Children learn from everything we say and do. Make sure that you are modelling respectful behaviour. Some things you can do are:

 

Obey laws—follow rules

Be caring—  show concern for people, animals and the environment. Avoid poor role models. When you see examples of dis-respect, discuss them.

 

            When you set rules at home, explain to your child why the rules are important. For instance,, if the rule is “No TV between 4:00 and 6:00” because this is homework time and homework is important to keep grades up in school.

Teach your child to respect themselves. Self-respect is one of the most important forms of respect. Once  we respect ourselves, it is easier to respect others.

 

By: Hermelita C. Meregildo | Master Teacher I | Limay National High School | Limay, Bataan