Discussing respect with children at a young age can be challenging, but parents should be proactive in educating them about respect.
Primary Years programme coordinator Areeva Sergeant suggests age-appropriate guidelines for parents to use:
Teach children about peer socialisation and valuing each other’s space:
Early childhood socialisation involves children discovering different genders and forming their gender identities. Friendships between different genders are crucial for social development, with girls being more compliant and accepting, while boys are more active and physical. These relationships teach respect and healthy attitudes.
Children will further encounter many challenging social situations during various developmental stages. Sergeant advises that parents should teach their child phrases to use during unfavourable situations such as ‘I don’t like what you’re doing. Please stop’. This reinforces respect for themselves to know what is acceptable and what is not.
Refrain from perpetuating stereotypes and ideals of inequality:
Adults often unintentionally teach children gender stereotypes, such as asking parents to pack lunch or fixing bikes. Stereotypes can even appear on birthday rings. To counter this, parents should teach respectful behaviour and avoid imposing preconceived views on others. Be mindful of your words, as they can leave lasting impressions on your child.
Model good behaviour:
Children learn by mimicking adults’ behaviour, so parents should convey manners, use good coping skills, avoid emotional reactions, explain decisions, and admit mistakes.
Foster Empathy:
Teach children about emotions beyond happiness, sadness, and anger. Encourage open communication and vulnerability, emphasising the value of vulnerability and communication. Empathy takes time to develop, so encourage open communication from a young age.
Encourage your child to stand up for friends:
Little kids lack an understanding of right and wrong, so teaching them to differentiate between emergencies and influence situations is crucial. Parents can teach bravery, defend peers, and teach problem-solving skills to counter inappropriate behaviour.
Respect is a fundamental value that contributes to the well-being of children and society as a whole. By leading by example and guiding your child to be kind, compassionate and respectful, you as the parent can create an environment where your child can thrive and live in harmony.
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