Children learn by example. Parents and caregivers can help foster good behavior by being a positive influence. If you are curious about how to encourage thoughtfulness and etiquette in young kids, we have a few helpful ideas for you.
Try one of these simple ways to set an example for your child. With some dedication and repetition, they will gain the skills to become healthy, happy adults.
Four Simple Ways to Set an Example for your Child
These are Four simple ways to set an example for your child. With some dedication and repetition:
1. Model Good Hygiene
An easy yet important way to set an example for children is to model good hygiene. Little ones with clean teeth are more likely to enjoy a beautiful smile for a lifetime. Be a good influence by taking your oral care seriously.
Keep your smile bright with a convenient and compact tool like a teeth whitening pen. A travel-friendly device does not take up any family time.
Pair it with a whitening acceleration tool with blue light technology like the Glow on the Go blue light device. Get whitening results at a faster speed. You will also whiten safely without getting sensitive teeth or gums.
Teach kids how to brush and floss. Explain to them how oral care prevents cavities. While they learn brushing techniques, let them try some of the latest innovations in kids’ oral care.
Interactive toothbrushes for kids look like adorable animals and allow your children to brush hands-free. Red light therapy encourages blood circulation for better gum health, while blue light kills bacteria. As they have fun with their devices, they will learn the benefits of better hygiene.
You can also encourage the same healthy habits when they bathe or shower. Have a family routine in the morning and evening so everyone can take the time to care for their bodies.
Have them complete the same hygiene and self-care activities each day so they know how important it is to stay well at any age. While you bond over these essential activities, you will take important items off the to-do list. Good hygiene will also become second nature to your children.
2. Stay Calm Under Pressure
In a busy and fast-paced world, it is easy to develop the symptoms of stress. According to the American Psychological Association, adults experience multiple sources of stress regularly.
The effects can make it easier to “snap” at others or respond emotionally, especially when under pressure. It is important to set a good example for young children by taking a deep breath before reacting to a stressful situation.
Kids need to learn how to pause and process their emotions before responding. Adults can teach them skills in emotional intelligence by staying positive and focusing on solutions. You can also model a kind attitude when dealing with others.
Another way to stay calm under pressure is to take care of your emotional health. If you are feeling stressed or anxious regularly, try engaging in relaxation techniques.
Meditation and deep breathing are two ways you can help your body return to a calm and relaxed state. You can also consider talking to a mental health professional to find helpful solutions for stress.
3. Set Healthy Boundaries
Boundaries are limits that you set between yourself and others. They can look different for every person and may vary depending on the relationship or the situation.
An example of a boundary is saying no to working overtime if it was not in your original schedule. You may decide to study when it seems more fun to stream movies or watch TV.
Limits are essential for the emotional health of yourself and others. It helps to learn how to set boundaries as early as possible. While you cannot anticipate every boundary for your child, you can show them how they work.
This example will help them to set limits as older kids and young adults. There are many ways to do this. First, show them that “no” can be a compassionate response.
If you are too tired or busy to complete a request, you can model for them how to decline politely. Explain to older kids that boundaries are the result of personal values.
Let them explore their family values as well as their own. Teach them it is okay to speak up. Display open and respectful communication with friends and family.
Let them know they can communicate when they are uncomfortable or have needs. These practices will help them to build trust in others and create healthy relationships, whether they are at work or play.
4. Teach Social Skills
From an early age, it is critical to model foundational social skills for kids. These include the basics, like sharing and cooperating. You can also work on skills like following directions and active listening.
As your children mature, show them how to make eye contact and use manners. Teach them how to address adults respectfully and say “please” and “thank you” to people of all ages.
There are many benefits to learning social skills. Kids who learn how to socialize have better outcomes at school and with their peers.
Show them that the most important thing you can do is treat everyone with kindness and respect. Explain that when you are caring toward others, you will be a good friend in the process.
Kids love their digital devices and technology. While they become naturals with their phones and computers, you can balance their screen time with face-to-face socialization skills.
Take them to visit friends and family. Participate in groups or social clubs. Some kids thrive when socializing in sports. When they get a chance to interact with others, they will continue to develop better ways of communicating.
Raise Healthy, Happy Children
Show your kids how they can care for themselves inside and out. Setting a good example will teach them more compassion and kindness for friends and family.
Modeling social skills and personal responsibility will help set your children up for a lifetime of success. Learning good hygiene and personal wellness will also keep them at their best.
Healthy and happy children become well-adjusted and successful adults. The time you take to set an example now can help to set a positive tone for your child’s life and for generations to come.