Many parents complain that their children don’t listen to them, be it brushing their teeth before bed or eating veggies!
But what they don’t understand is that unless they inculcate little habits like these from a young age, their child won’t get into a set routine. Making sure your child develops good habits at an early age is a great way to ensure their behavior and etiquette are in place for a lifetime.
We bring you the list of some good habits that can help your kids become better people.
1. Train to Show Basic Courtesy
Words like “Thank you”, “Sorry” and “Please” play a vital role in inculcating good manners. Some children feel uneasy or uncomfortable to say sorry, but it is very important to educate them as they must realize the significance of apologizing. Saying “Please” and “Thank You” is the best way to show generosity to others and especially when said by children it becomes more appreciable.
In addition to this, teach the word “Excuse me” when the child unintentionally knocks into some conversation. But to make your child say these words is not a very easy task, especially when the child is quite adamant.
2. Encourage Polite Discussion
The most important lesson in life to teach your child is to stay humble. Teach your children to be polite and empathetic to each everyone. Some examples could be, to teach them to greet everyone they meet with a smile, also, teach them not to shout in situations which are difficult, etc. Being polite and humble is one of the best qualities and habits that one can have and it can only be developed over time starting from childhood.
3. Motivate Them to Appreciate Others
Make your child understand the importance of appreciating others when someone does a commendable job. This may be difficult for a few children as they feel down or upset for missing out on the opportunity of success but it is good that they appreciate others to show their generosity. If the child is agitated to inculcate this quality, it is parent’s duty to motivate them by praising them for every good thing they do. Simply forcing them will not work out as they are very sensitive.
4. Teach them Road Etiquette
Teach your child not to throw waste and spit on roads. Let them know about the impacts of performing such dirty jobs while going out. Show them the dirty road condition, and explain the negative impacts of doing so. Follow clean and healthy habits at home so that your child follows these habits whenever they go out.
5. Stop Them from Intruding
Children should not interfere in others’ privacy or other confidential matters. When the guests are arriving at the house, usually children are fond of taking their mobiles, handbags, purses, and wallets. Do not encourage them to do such faulty jobs where others may think bad about the child and parenting methods may be judged as wrong. To avoid such interference by the child, clarify them that such practices may result in breaking any relationship.
6. Encourage Family Bonding
In a growing trend to establish nuclear families, children are not interested to stay with their parents because from early childhood, they have not experienced life with their parents. It is important that they learn the value of family and make an effort to bond with everyone. Always have a small family event now and then which will help everyone mingle and enjoy with each other. Also, encourage family meals every day and try to spend a few minutes every day sitting together and talking about your day, experiences, etc.
7. Develop Healthy Eating Habits
A good, healthy diet is a very good habit. Especially in children, it does not happen overnight. They need to be encouraged to eat fresh foods like fruits and avoid fatty and sugary snacks. Avoid giving them sugary treats when they achieve something. Instead, you can also switch to fun, tasty and healthy alternatives like dry fruits, nuts, and home-made juices. Such a good mix of food items will provide your child with enough energy to survive the day and focus on the important things.
8. Keep Things Positive
Having a positive state of mind is extremely important for you as a parent during your child’s initial years. Everything you teach them now will leave a mark on his thoughts throughout their life. The last thing you would want to see your child take the route of negativity and depression as a teen or as an adult. Make sure the environment at home is happy and comfortable and also positive.
9. Show Respect
Respecting elders is something you would want your child to build as his etiquette. If you haven’t done that already, now is the time to encourage them to do the same. Readout bedtime stories that talk about kids seeking blessings from their elders and helping them out with their activities. It is also a great way to help your kids connect with their grandparents.
This list is not the end. Comment below and let us know what other habits you think are absolutely important and how it can be inculcated in children. Also, do not forget to share this blog with other parents as well.