Respect We often talk about how to teach children to respect adults , but we rarely talk about the importance of showing respect to children . In fact , many adults don ’ t often think about showing children respect , and so we boss them around , talk over them , dismiss their emotions or arguments , and so forth . I believe that all humans deserve to be treated with respect and dignity , and that children best learn how to show respect to others when they have experienced it for themselves . Here are a few ways to show children respect .
• Allow them to make choices about their bodies . Don ’ t force your child to hug or show affection to anyone . Stop tickling when they say stop , or don ’ t tickle them if they ask not to be tickled . Don ’ t spank or physically punish them .
• Model courtesy . Simply treat them how we want to be treated and how we hope they treat others .
• Listen . So often , we dismiss their point of view or their feelings because our own problems seem bigger and our views more valid . However , we can show our children respect by allowing them to speak up for themselves and truly listening to what they have to say .
• Respect their privacy . Trust is an essential part of every relationship . Don ’ t share embarrassing photos or stories , and keep their private lives private . Refrain from embarrassing them in front of their peers or talking about them to an adult in their presence , unless of course it ’ s positive !
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