This week the lesson in etiquette will center on teaching kindness. Kindness is defined as the quality of being friendly, generous and considerate. Most people can improve upon being kind to one another. Our days are rushed and we find we are short on time, patience, and energy to practice kindness. Kindness, however, should be the reflex not a forced action. In order for this to occur we need to teach it to our children through example and taking opportunities to express it.
Ways to be Kind
To understand kindness one needs to know what it means to be kind. Here are some examples you can share with your child about kindness.
If someone drops a pencil pick it up for them.
When someone comes in the room say hello.
If someone is carrying something heavy offer to help or hold open a door.
If someone needs help offer to help before being asked.
Never leave a friend out of a game. Include everyone and all will have fun.
If someone is sad then cheer him up with a smile or by sitting by him.
If someone loses something help him look for it.
It is also important to note that while your child should be taught to be kind to friends, family, neighbors and strangers, that he never goes off with a stranger or offers a stranger help. Teach your child that a stranger does not need a child’s help for anything. If a stranger asks for help the child should seek a trusted adult. If a child sees a stranger in need of help he is to get a trusted adult to help.
Another way we are kind is by our words. Ask your child to list nice words to describe someone and impolite words used to describe someone. Make sure your child understands the difference and that saying something impolite is unkind and can hurt another person.
Preschool Etiquette: Proper Introductions
Preschool Etiquette: What is Etiquette?