5 Ways I Teach My Kids Respect

I value certain things I see in others. What about you? What catches your eye?

Hospitality?

Respect?

Polite manners?

Giving?

Here are 5 things I place high value on as I teach and train them:

Not Trespassing (Respect Other’s Property)

Don’t trespass on others property. Trespassing might seem like you’re doing something wrong on the someone’s land but it simply means being on their property without permission.

I’m consistently reminding the children not to cut through other people’s yards because it doesn’t belong to them. But I believe the best way to begin teaching them is at home. Don’t go in your siblings or parent’s bedroom without permission. This isn’t your space and you need to respect  that. We’ve been working on this for awhile. And it’s gotten better.

The Gift of Thankfulness (Hand written Thank Yous)

The day of snail mail is almost a lost art. So many people are turning to email and texting as main forms of communication.

I’m teaching my children if someone took the time to buy you something you can take the time to write them a note expressing your gratitude. It teaches them the joy of expressing a thankful spirit. By writing the words it focuses their attention to what truly was offered to them.

Respect for Elders (including using Ms. and Mr.)

This might sound old school to you but it’s an important tool to teach your children. I believe teaching your children to call their elders with a surname is just a common courtesy. It gives them a sense this person deserves their respect and that can start with just a simple name. Instead of making it too formal we just say Ms. Harriet or Mr. Jack. It’s personal yet respectful.

I’m hoping this will guide them to always those in a position of authority over them weather it be at school, church or in the community.

Don’t just say Sorry – Say Why You’re Sorry

How easy is it to say “Sorry”? It’s so simple. Too simple. Yet you can tell when it’s heartfelt. One of the ways I’ve challenged my kids is to do 3 things.

1. Look the person in the eye.

2. Say you’re sorry.

3. Say why you’re sorry for  your actions.

Just having to say what you did wrong puts some conviction in your heart even if it wasn’t already there. Saying it aloud helps you to truly think about what you did to wrong that person.

This teaches them the value of other’s feelings. We hurts someone else with our words or actions and now there’s an invisible divider between us. By being humble and willing to express our regrets it brings back unity and builds the trust back.

Respect Other’s Time (Be polite and Prepared)

If you value someone else than you should value their time.

• If someone is picking you up be ready at the door.
• If someone allows you to cross the street, walk quickly.
• If someone is teaching you/showing you how to do something be respectful and pay attention.

I see many youth and children these days who don’t value other’s time. It’s almost as if they expect it and demand it.

I believe in teaching them these principles it will train them to value what other’s value. When they see and respect other’s desires I believe it will drive them to love people more abundantly.

Christ wants us to live selflessly. To put others first. To put our needs last. In training them in these little things it will prepare them for a lifetime of service and love towards others.

Of course there are other things I teach them too. Such as polite manners. Saying please and thankful.

But what are some things that you place high value on as you raise your kids?

Shared On: JuanaMickels, Thifty Thursday, Time Warp wife