Today, children are educated, informed, and wise beyond their years. We expect them to walk early, talk early, read early, even potty train early. As humans, we adapt, and our children are now meeting these expectations. Along with maturing faster, the children have developed a sense of being ‘an equal’ to an adult at a very young age. There is a lack of respect toward adults, when children feel, or are made to feel, that they are smarter, wiser, or better than an adult is. Many teachers have experienced this. Of course, not all children are like this, but there is arrogance amongst our young ones. Unfortunately, we need only to turn on the television to see this arrogant behavior from our young actors. We need to go back to the basics and practice common courtesy and a general respect for others. Teach children at a very early age the proper way to address an adult by role modeling. Make sure they witness you shaking hands, making eye contact, and properly greeting visitors. Remember: all of this will be for nothing, if after the visitor leaves, you talk bad about them. The child will see the common courtesy as a joke, if you do this. Role-play with your children in comfortable surroundings. Teach them who to properly address as Mr. and Mrs. Plan ahead of time. If an adult friend says to your child, just call me Frank; teach your child how to respectfully respond. He may say, Sir my parents would like for me to call you Mr. Smith. They say it is more appropriate and shows respect. Will that be okay? This process may take time, especially with shy children who may have a hard time speaking to adults. Their confidence will need to be encouraged. This is why it is so important to start at a young age. For example, when the whole family is out for dinner, each child may appropriately order their own food. Speak clearly to the waiter and make eye contact. A shy child may feel more confident since mommy and daddy are right there for support. Addressing close friends properly will also help children better be able to address new acquaintances, such as teachers, parent’s co-workers, etc. Addressing an adult properly seems so minor. However, this is a very important life skill and will translate into other appropriate behaviors. Take the time to teach your children to address and treat adults with respect. They will in turn, receive positive feedback and earn respect from their adult acquaintances.
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