Gaining the Respect of Your Children
Parents assume that just because they are parents they deserve their children’s respect. In our interactions with our children, just as with anyone else, you need to show respect in order to get it. Teaching your children respect by example is not difficult.
The Tone of Voice You Use
The tone of our voice says much more than the words we speak and the younger the child, the more they will depend on the tone. It is important you try to avoid displaying tension or stress in your voice when you are speaking with your kids.
The Words You Choose
The words you use to convey your feelings to your children are another indication of respect. It is vital to teach children that every thought in your head need not be expressed. Screen your words before you speak them and your children will follow in kind.
Body Language Cues
Children are fairly primitive beings and need to be taught the social niceties in order to fit into mainstream society. Children know immediately if their parents are actively listening to what they are saying. If you expect your children to listen to you with respect, you will have to do the same for them.
Our Attitude about Belongings
Respect for other people’s property is not something children are born with, it is something they learn from their parents. If you take the time to care for the things you have purchased such as your clothes, make-up or equipment used in sports, it shows your children that caring for their belongings as well as others is the proper way to treat material possessions.
Teach your children that the surest way to gain the respect of others is to respect them first. Teaching this valuable skill to your children will serve them in good stead for all of their lives.
Filed under: Family Issues
