How to inspire manners in your children
The home is the first school for the child. It is the laboratory where practical activities take place on daily basis. The Child learns every second, every minute, every hour and every day.Children being who they are learn by imitating their parents in the home. Consciously or unconsciously, the child learns by example. They imitate their parents every inch in the home. Like a typical student, they are also curious to know and understand the "whats", the "whys" and the ...??? Whatever they learn shape their psyche and conduct on daily basis; they get inspired by what pleases them and tend to ask questions on what appears vague and questionable.
To inspire manners in your children, here are few tips:
1. When entering the house greet your children or even hug them. This should help develop their sense of love and self worth.
2. Be good to your neighbours and never backbite. Never speak ill of other drivers when on the road. Your children listen, absorb and emulate.
3. When calling your parents, encourage your children to speak to them. When visiting your parents take your children with you. The more they see you take care of your parents the more they will learn to take care of you.
4. Read to them a short story and even a scripture a day – it doesn't take much time, but very impactful in creating strong bonds and wonderful memories.
5. Comb your hair, clean your teeth and wear presentable cloths even if sitting at home and not going out for the day. They need to learn that being clean and tidy has nothing to do with going out!
6. Try not to blame or comment on every word or action they say or do. Learn to overlook and let go sometimes. This certainly builds their self-confidence.
7. Ask your children's permission before entering their rooms ; don't just knock and enter. They will learn to do the same when attempting to enter your room.
8. Apologize to your children if you make a mistake. Apologizing teaches them to be humble and polite.
9. Don't be sarcastic or make fun of their views or feelings, even if you "didn't mean it" and "was only joking". It really hurts.
10. Show respect to your children's privacy. It's important for their sense of value and self-esteem.
11. Don't expect that they will listen or understand the first time. Don't take it personal ; be patient and consistent.
12. Pray with them. Show them how to pray. Lead by example.
Remember the Biblical injunction that says
Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise; That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth. And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord- Ephesians 6:1-4
