Teaching Respect for Self and Others

A person of character shows respect. He or she is courteous and polite and is tolerant of differences. He or she respects the dignity, privacy and freedom of others. A child is not born with a concrete self-image or character traits. These are learned and shaped through experiences that begin at birth. These factors play a fundamental role in your child's growth and development.

Consider the following examples of "do's and don'ts":

Do

• Treat others the way you want to be treated.
• Show tolerance and be accepting of differences.
• Be courteous and use good manners.
• Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements.

Don't

• Insult or make fun of others.
• Offend others with bad language.
• Threaten, hit or hurt anyone.

Respect

• Be tolerant of differences
• Use good manners and language
• Be considerate of others' feelings
• Don't threaten, hit or hurt anyone
• Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements