How to Teach Respect to Preschool Children

While "please" and "thank you" is often instilled at a young age, children should also know how to greet others and use eye contact by the time they get to pre-k. Many parents differ on their views of physical boundaries like hugging, but there is no harm in teaching young children to say "hello" and "goodbye."

Acting up is an inevitable part of childhood and often stems from the inability to express feelings and emotions. Regardless of the reason for your child's tantrum, it's helpful to establish rules before visiting a public place like a restaurant or store. If those rules are not followed, there should be clear consequences with consistent follow-through from the adults. Though not ideal or convenient, it could be as simple as leaving the store.

Respect can be taught through a number of behaviors, so be sure your teaching methods are age appropriate. For example, rather than explain why respect is important, teach how being quiet and listening is an easy thing that everyone can do-especially when in the presence of adults and older siblings. Take the lesson further by asking what they like about their grandparents and how they might show respect for those qualities.

Often overlooked in the challenge to teach such a complex concept as reverence is the lesson of self-respect. Start by asking your child about a time they felt mad or sad. See if you can draw a parallel between those memories and the lesson of respect. Maybe their older brother took their toy without asking (a sign of disrespect on the part of their sibling). Perhaps someone called them a bad name on the playground. Teaching your child how to stand up for themselves is a surefire way to get the message of respect across.

Nearly every parent has been in a public space when their child makes an embarrassing observation. To the kid, it's nothing more than curiosity. Regarding the physically disabled, they may say, "Mommy, why does that guy look like that? What's wrong with his legs?" Rather than hush them and apologize, treat it as a learning opportunity. Respect has as much to do with celebrating differences as it does minding one's Ps and Qs. From different ethnicities to different haircuts, your child will learn best with access to a variety of cultures and belief systems. While books and TV shows are great, nothing beats real world experience.

To introduce respectful behavior, begin with things rather than people. For example, if your child wants to play with your phone or iPad, teach them how to use it in a respectful manner - no grabbing, shaking, or throwing the item. Teach that all things have value - from food to Legos. Soon, they'll associate actions with consequences which will cross over into their human interactions as well.

Though it will be difficult at times, using your own behavior as a model for how your children should behave is an effective strategy. Enforcing household rules will also increase the likelihood of good behavior in preschool and kindergarten. The notion that "respect begets respect" is something the whole family can adopt to help the little ones learn and grow.

To learn more about All Saints' Episcopal Day School in Phoenix, including our pre-k enrollment, contact us today.