Teaching proper etiquette, manners and social skills can be difficult at the best of times. It can be even more of a stretch to focus on things like appropriate greetings, saying excuse me and the importance of being punctual in the midst of busy days, melt-downs and traffic jams.
While a lot of challenging behaviours we might experience as parents, grandparents while caring for children aren’t intentional on a child’s part, finding creative ways to help them learn and experience appropriate ways to act in a variety of situations is key. Recognizing when it’s time to wait for their turn in a line, learning not to interrupt when someone else is speaking and being punctual are all valuable life skills.
Children are curious and open minded, always watching and often hearing more than you think. Now is also the perfect time to expose them to diverse experiences and people from new and different places.
It’s fair to say that kids don’t always know what to say that’s appropriate. Consider a discussion about the fact that there is no “normal” and that there is no need for “us and them” thinking. Finding ways to celebrate human diversity, uniqueness, differences and similarities while helping youngsters learn how to choose kind and respectful words to choose in potentially awkward situations is key.
Here are some helpful tips.
1) Model inclusive behaviour and avoid reinforcing stereotypes.
2) Help children to notice the feelings of others and see things from another perspective
3) Provide honest answers and don’t avoid questions.
4) Explore ways to build self-esteem and empathy so your little ones will be comfortable standing up for what they believe is right rather than following the crowd.
5) Use books as a starting point to generate the type of conversations you’d like to have.
6) Identify values that can help guide you and your child in making the best choices.
Leading by example, gentle reminders and ongoing chats and experiences can truly pave the way. After all, helping kids feel comfortable in their own skin while appreciating others sets them up for a lifetime of respectful connections.
Caroline Tapp-McDougall
Publisher/Editor
caroline@bcsgroup.com
Photo; iStock
