Have you explored moral values with your child? Moral values help children to understand the difference between right and wrong and the importance of honesty, respect and loyalty. Teaching children morality will also help them to understand how to treat other people and allow them to develop essential social skills for their future.
The morals children learn from their parents can have a big impact on how they behave as adults. This is why it is vital for parents to role model kindness, good manners and respect in everyday life.
To help you explore moral values with your child, here are some great tips from a leading prep school in Notting Hill…
Set a good example
Children learn from observing their parents, therefore it is vital to be a good role model and always show kindness to others. Be aware of how you talk to people and try to demonstrate good manners for your child to replicate, like saying please and thank you.
Teach your child how to listen
Teach your child to be polite and explain the importance of listening to others when they are speaking. This is particularly important in the classroom. Stress the importance of respecting the teacher by listening when they are speaking and following their instructions.
Encourage kindness
Teach your children to be kind and value other people’s ideas and opinions. Encourage the idea of treating others as they wish to be treated and helping those in need.
Say sorry
Try to give your child space to work things out alone. Disputes with friends are common at school and learning how to resolve these issues is an important life-skill. Furthermore, if you make a mistake or have a disagreement with your child, be sure to apologise. This will show that you value and respect their thoughts and feelings. By apologising to your child you will also be teaching them how to treat others and how to accept responsibility.
Learn school values
Finally, try to encourage your children to value their own learning and success. They can demonstrate this by being on time to school, working to the best of their ability, completing homework and being polite to their teachers. If your child’s school has a list of core values, it can be helpful to read this together with your child at home.
