Use Teachable Moments to Explain Respect

Teaching your child respectful behavior is not like teaching her how to ride a bike.  You cannot have your child practice once or twice and expect the lesson to sink in.

Instead, look for moments when good – or bad – behavior is on display.  By talking about what you see, your child will learn a powerful lesson.  Talk about respect as you: 

• Watch a sporting event.  If a baseball manager disagrees with an umpire’s call, what does he do?  If he runs onto the field screaming, ask your child, “What would happen if you did that to your teacher?  What do you think would happen if I acted like that at work?"
• Watch television.  Many TV shows today confuse humor with disrespect.  If you hear a put-down or disrespectful comment on a show, talk about it with your child.  What are more respectful ways to talk with people?

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