Teach your child to show appreciation

If your child is used to getting everything he wants, when he wants it, he is headed for trouble in
school and in life. A respectful child appreciates what others do for him, and treats others well in
return.

To foster an appreciative, respectful child:
• Be a role-model. Your child will do what he observes you
doing. So let him know when he’s being helpful. And let him hear you
acknowledge others for making an effort or doing a job well.
• Make please and thank you second nature. Do not respond to requests
until you hear the word please: “May I have a snack, please?” Insist that
your child say thank you for anything he gets in person. Have him send a
note (he can tell you what to say and you can write it for him) when he
gets a gift.
• Take it easy on material goods. Does your child really need more
toys? Is he “entitled” to a treat every time you go through the grocery
store checkout? If you want to reward your child, spend time with him.
This teaches him to appreciate people for themselves, not for what they
can do for him.