7 Ways to Teach Civility to Children
Unfortunately, our youngsters are learning that people who are uncivil appear to have an edge. Celebrity culture and political warfare promote the antithesis of civility. Those who yell the loudest and are the most disrespectful appear to attract the most consideration. Those who are kind and compassionate are often overlooked in the spotlight, but these are the qualities we hope our children will have.
You should instil civility in your youngster unless you want to raise a cruel child. Civility entails showing consideration for others. Civility entails being respectful of others and putting others ahead of oneself. The polar opposite of what they learn from television. Our youngsters sorely need someone to teach them politeness in an uncivil environment and demonstrate why it is so important.
- Etiquette Is Important
Politeness is an important aspect of civility. Teaching your child manners does not imply teaching him or her to be a pushover. Instead, good manners will assist your child in engaging in civil discourse. It is often the difference between a civilized and an uncivilized debate that comes down to manners. The words “please” and “thank you” can go a long way toward making others feel seen and heard.
- Demonstrate Tolerance
Children must learn that tolerance and acceptance are necessary for humanity. You must teach your child to accept people who are different from him or her. Tolerance can be demonstrated by respecting other cultures and being aware of stereotypes. Discussing this concept also allows you to address bullying. You can use this conversation to encourage your child not to be a bully while also advocating for those who are bullied.
- Provide Examples
When you see people modeling civil behavior, point it out to your children and have a conversation about it. While it may appear easier to point out when people are being uncivil, your children will learn more from positive civil examples. As a result, whenever you see an example of civil debate or good sportsmanship, acknowledge it.
- Pay Close Attention
To be civil, you must pay attention to others. Before you judge or speak, you should listen to what someone says. You are demonstrating your appreciation for their thoughts and opinions in this manner. It is also critical for parents to listen to their children. Your children will learn to listen well by watching you.
- Consistently apologize
We are not flawless. We will make errors. However, our apologies can leave an impression on our children. Our apologies demonstrate more than just that we messed up; they also demonstrate that we care about the feelings of others. Along the same lines, practice apologizing when you know someone else is in pain, even if you were not the cause.
- Promote Empathy
Continuing from the previous thought, when we consider the feelings of others, we foster empathy. Allow your children to consider the feelings of others. Discuss what you see happening and ask them how they believe the individuals are feeling. Encourage your children to imagine themselves in the shoes of others.
- Put into Practice What You Preach
Finally, you cannot simply tell your children to be civil – a lecture will not suffice. Instead, you must put your words into action. So, instead of uncivil reactions in the heat of the moment, strive to model self-control. Keep an eye on what you say and how you act.
While the world appears to be becoming more uncivil, the next generation is more giving and serving. If we educate our children to manage arguments with grace, they will be able to do incredible things.