As parents, it is a prerequisite to follow up with your child as it is in the nature of Africans to show respect even in words, greetings, behaviour and reactions.
To teach and encourage respect in their children, parents must model respect. Children often watch the adults around them, looking for clues defining the expectations. If they see parents and teachers treating one another with respect, they will do the same.
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As children grow, they should engage them in conversations about respect. Talk about the way we treat others. Focus on the words we often use (yes, madam; yes, sir; please and thank you) and the attitudes we portray. Explain the expectation of respect for others demonstrated in both attitude and behaviour.
Teach your child the concept of turn taking as it depicts respect. It is a skill needed in all aspects of life. Helping children to patiently wait for a turn to speak encourages respectful listening. Encouraging children to wait for their turn in line or their turn for a toy develops an attitude of patience and respect.
Also, teach polite response, which is embedded in the five magic words (please, thank you, I’m sorry, pardon me and excuse me) children are taught from a young age. This should form a key part of their vocabulary as they continue to build them.
Avoid spoiling your child. Every child deserves attention but then, you cannot satisfy every of his demand. Learn to say ‘No’ before it is too late and your child becomes an adult. Do not pamper endlessly by fulfilling each and every demand just because he/she is the only child.
As a parent say ‘sorry’ if you do some wrong. You cannot earn respect if you do not give respect. Let children also apologise for their mistakes as it helps them learn to value others.
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Parents should endeavour to praise respectful behaviour. When children demonstrate good manners and respect to others, give specific praise for the positive choices they are making.
It is important to teach kids the value of things in life so they do not take you or others for granted. This way, you impart positive discipline to them. Do not make them materialistic. Expensive toys and gadgets can wait but their manners should be pleasing and appealing to all. Only then will their friends and family like them.
Your child should learn not to hurt others. He/she should be a caring individual who is sensitive to the feelings of others. Also, ensure that he/she spends some time with his/her grandparents, as old people know a lot.
Teach them the value of respect and make it clear that if they want to succeed in life and become happy, they should learn the value of caring and sharing. Respect is earned! Time and consistency together with intentional teaching efforts will impart valuable character trait to children.
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