Although it is a tough experience, raising kids is usually fulfilling. However, there are times when you feel like you are less prepared for the task. If that is the case, you need to know how to go about it. Here are a few tips you can use to raise a well-behaved child.
- Introduce the Magic Words
Your kids learn best through play. Therefore, you can use stuffed toys and puppets to create scenarios that allow them to use polite words such as “please,” and “thank you.” It may take some time for them to get used to these words so you need to be patient throughout.
- Teach Your Child to Apologize
Shame and guilt are two emotions which prevent your child from admitting they have made mistakes. Reassure them that mistakes can be acceptable, but let them know that it’s important to apologize for mistakes they make. Show them how to use words such as “sorry” and “excuse me” when they make mistakes or bump into other people.
- Reward them for Good Behavior
When your child behaves well, make sure they are rewarded for their good behavior. To reinforce acceptable character throughout, you can use a behavior chart which you can assign points and allow them to pick small rewards once certain points have been reached. There are numerous toys for toddlers which can help you reinforce good behavior.
- Play with Your Child Often
Spend some quality time with your kid as you help them to develop their behavioral skills. When you play with your child, you’ll be in a position to modify their behavior in case they are acting aggressively, unsafely, or even selfishly. Moreover, being around your kid will help you to teach them rules and limits while enjoying each other’s company.
- Teach them the value of Empathy
A child who understands how others feel is a well-behaved kid. Help in building your child’s empathy skills by teaching them how to respect others and talking to them in a language that is rich in emotion.
- Hone their Communication Skills
Naturally, kids are animated – they are super-active, rowdy, and loud. This sort of behavior often prevents them from following instructions. Refine their listening skills by modeling the type of behavior you would like to see in them. Be keen and listen when they talk as well. Set aside any distractions, maintain eye contact, and give them adequate time to express their views. Interrupting your child will make them feel like they are not valued, and this may lead them to portray similar behaviors when conversing with others.
- Teach Your Child Not to Repeat Mistakes
Although apologizing for one’s mistake makes a person to feel honest and reliable, reminding your child that apologizing is only effective the first time is instrumental in helping prevent a repeat of mistakes. It is important that your kid understands that saying “sorry” over and over will only make them look dishonest and this will discredit them.
Final Word
You may consider yourself to be a responsible parent, but paying less attention to your child’s behavioral development can make you look careless. Make sure you teach your children how to behave appropriately from their young age so they can grow to be honest and responsible individuals.
