Introduction

Throughout the month, discuss the benefits of treating others in the same way you would like to be treated. Help your child understand that all people have value and therefore should be treated with respect.

People show respect in many ways. They speak and act kindly, avoid insults, cruel comments and rude language. They are courteous and considerate to family members and treat others fairly, regardless of race, sex, age or ethnic group. They demonstrate respect for people who do not share their beliefs, likes, and dislikes.

American writer James Baldwin once said, “Children have never been good at listening to their elders, but they have never failed to imitate them.” Children learn respect (or disrespect) from how we treat them and others. They reflect back everything we, as parents, say and do. When we give children the same respect we demand, we are modeling this important character trait. Remember, how we teach them is what we teach them.