Some define respect as being polite or having good manners. But the word has a much deeper meaning and value in today’s world.
Giving respect means treating others with honor and esteem. It also means showing consideration and appreciation. Respect is about valuing the worth of yourself, others and the world around you.
Most kids learn the basics of respect at an early age:
- Say “please” and “thank you”
- Share your toys
- Play nice at school
- Follow the rules
- Don’t make fun of others
Unfortunately, these basic tenants of respect have become cliché phrases that many kids know, but don’t always put into practice. Without practice, respect deteriorates. Young children who grow up without a foundation of respect can become school-age bullies. Worse, they become awful adults to work alongside in the professional world.
Teach you kids respect by following these steps:
Be supportive
Kids who are raised in a supportive, family environment have greater self-esteem and confidence. Having a strong sense of self-worth is a necessary building block for respect. Often, kids who aren’t supported at home mimic that behavior elsewhere and it manifests as “no respect.”
Model the way
Like most behavior, respect is learned through observation, experience and direct teaching. Kids who witness parents being rude to a waitress or cursing another driver from behind the wheel of a car are learning disrespect. Consider what your kids are learning through your actions and words.
Establish boundaries
We live in a civilized society because we have rules and boundaries. Talk to your kids about the your family rules – no foul language, no hitting, etc. Also establish boundaries so kids know what is expected of them, “You are free to play outside with your friends so long as you stay in the cul-de-sac and let me know before you go into their home.”
Minimize media noise
The media is filled with disrespectful messages today. From sexually demeaning music lyrics to off-color jokes on television, kids are exposed to a litany of negative influences through media. While it’s tough to protect kids 24/7, you can make them aware of what is acceptable and what it not by developing a standard of respect, “The character in this movie isn’t respecting his friends. That kind of behavior isn’t acceptable.”
Practice genuine respect
Please. Thank you. May I? Excuse me. I’m sorry. These are the “magic words” everyone is taught to use from an early age. But saying them doesn’t automatically translate to genuinely feeling the words. Teach your kids to say the words, but also talk about what it means to feel appreciation, sorrow, or the other feelings that go along with respecting others.
Question: I’m sure there are other ways to teach respect. What have you tried? Please share your experiences and ideas in the comments.
image credit: Dyanna via Flickr.com
