To help your child learn about the things that make us respectful, there are a number of ways to support their progress. It’s a moral value that will really help guide children through a person’s emotions. Additionally it will help them know how they can support one another and build their awareness of being kind no matter the situation.

In this guide from a nursery in Hertfordshire we look at the ways you can help to raise a child that is aware of respect and how they can offer it up to others.

Point out examples of respect in daily life

Firstly there are heaps of ways your child can learn the importance of respect. Plus there are ways to show your child how these vary in everyday life. For example, you could both be at a cafe and a person offers someone a place in the queue as they’re running late. At the supermarket you can see small acts of kindness by thanking others for their service, wishing staff a pleasant day and apologizing for making a mistake.

Model respect

Children always look up to us for support and guidance. A parent that always shows ways of being respectful will have a greater chance of that being reflected on their children. Make time for your child to learn directly from you and make sure it’s known. Flag up when you are showing an act of respect towards someone else. Additionally let them ask questions about why you did what you did to help them understand better.

Praise your child for doing well

If your child is able to model respect in public then you know your efforts are doing well. Praise them for doing well in these situations and offer advice to them. Let them know you see what they’re doing and how proud you are of them for trying so well. If they know that you’re aware of what they’re trying to do to better themselves then they’ll continue to learn how to be respectful.