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Respect

Knock first! Teaching respect

Instructions

Preschoolers often mimic behavior. To teach respect an adult must show respect as preschoolers are watching
You cannot teach respect if you are disrespectful to your children
A simple idea is to practice knocking on closed doors and asking to enter. This shows respect and it is easy for adults to model when they want to enter a child’s bedroom, bathroom, etc.
Teach the child to knock on closed doors before entering and to ask for permission to enter. For example, a child knocks on the closed bedroom door and asks "Mom, may I please come in?"

Simplify

If as a parent you feel a child has been disrespectful to you, don't overreact. Stay calm and in control so you can gain the child's attention by making eye contact and if possible stand in front of them so they can clearly see you. Show that you have empathy, self-control, and respect when dealing with issues. Ask the child why they acted the way they did and then give some tools to solve the problem. Respect the preferences that a child has that are different from yours as you ask for their opinions and suggestions.

For example, a child was eating a cookie while walking up the stairs in their home, and crumbs were falling. The mom asked the child to please stop but the child continued up the stairs. What happened next?

Extend

Watch/Listen to the book "Berenstain Bears - Show Some Respect"

QUESTIONS FOR CHILD

Share something you saw that showed respectful behaviors.

Would you rather be known as a bully or someone who is kind and why?

Materials

door for knocking

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Curriculum Plan Resources

Skills Focus

Shape - Star
Color - Purple
Number - Review
Alphabet Letters - S, V
Senses - Touch
Character Trait - Respect
Target Words - Hot, Soft, Above, Below

Monthly Proverb

Scottish-He that is wise can make a friend of a foe

Did You Know?

"The foundations of social competence that are developed in the first five years are linked to emotional well-being and affect a child’s later ability to functionally adapt in school and to form successful relationships throughout life." National Scientific Council on the Developing Child