Everyone loves children, especially those that belong to others. The fact that one is not responsible for them for the whole time might be one reason why! One is also not responsible for teaching them manners.
It is easy to play critic on the way any parent raises their child. Often an ill-behaved child leaves a question mark on the parenting techniques employed. This is probably one of the major reasons why people fear having children. It is important to understand that a balance should be maintained between loving the child and spoiling them silly. Teaching children good manners is important as it is a critical part of their social and emotional development. Then there is the Golden Rule. The Golden Rule is the principle of treating others as you want to be treated. It is a maxim that is found in many religions and cultures. Early Learning Centre in Dubai Marina has experienced teaching staff which provides parents with some essential tips to teach the children good manners.

• Ask your child to use magic words

The important thing a child should learn is politeness and basic manners. You can start by telling them about magic words like “Please”, “Thank You”, “Excuse Me” and not to forget “Sorry”. The child should also be greeted similarly. What you practice every day, doesn’t need to be preached. Greet the child “Good morning” or “Good night” and you will find it surprising that the child will respond willingly.

• Be kind and ensure that it is reciprocated

If you are kind towards your child, help them get their work done and help strangers and neighbours while they can observe this, they will pick it up too. Also make them aware of what constitutes good bad behaviour. When your child misbehaves, reprimand them without being cruel. Show them that they need to ask for things politely and show kindness to others if they want to be treated the same way.

• Share

Sharing their things is often something a child might refuse to do. This can be an embarrassing moment for parents. Unless this behaviour is changed, it is going to be a big problem later in life. Children should be taught that everyone will take turns to play with the toy or read the book and that they should wait patiently for their turn. Though it is going to be difficult initially, with constant gentle reminders this can be done. At Oakfield Early Learning Centre in Jumeirah Park, this behaviour is taught and reinforced every day.

• Respect everyone

Compassion towards the less fortunate, both people and animals, is something which will turn your child into a gentle and caring soul. You need to teach your child that everyone deserves care, and kindness, irrespective of their size, colour, gender or disability. Making fun of people is going to hurt them. Tell them to treat people as they would like themselves to be treated.

• Table manners

Respecting food is very important. While sitting for a meal, it is important that the child follows table manners. Show them the correct use of napkin and cutlery. Also, tell them that talking while chewing is impolite and should be avoided if possible

• Throwing tantrums does not help

Often children resort to tantrums to get their own ends. They will bawl and cry, throw things, misbehave, talkback etc. It is important not to get riled up or retort sharply or cave-in to their demands. You can walk away from the drama and listen to the child only when they have calmed down and is talking politely. Make it clear to them that such behaviour is not appreciated and will not get things done for them.
Please remember, children do not come with any built-in programmes. Everything they become is based on what they see or read. Setting the example is the best way to make sure your child will be an asset to our society and a human being you will forever be proud of.