Storm Family Martial Arts believes children can learn respect simply by following your good example.

In January we will be working on the character lesson: RESPECT.

One of the most important things you can teach your children is respect. Respect is not the same thing as obedience. Children will obey a parent or teacher because they are afraid, but if they respect you, they will obey you because they know that you know what is best for them.

Here is a guideline regarding children and respect based on age:

• With children ages 3 and 4; they are just learning how to act appropriately with others. Teach them how to have good manners such as saying “please” and “thank you.”

• With children ages 5 and 6; they are learning that the way they act will have an effect on others, both positively and negatively. Teach them how to have good sportsmanship.

• With children ages 7 and 9; they are becoming more independent and making their own decisions. Teach them about self-respect.

• With children ages 10 and up; they are at an age where identity and popularity becomes important. Teach them about having respect for their friends by not gossiping or bullying.

Children can learn respect simply by following your good example.

One easy way to build respect is to give them a chance to make decisions and give their point of view and to reinforce respectful behavior when it is demonstrated at home or in public.

The homework for our junior students this month will be to ensure you use please and thank you when speaking with others.

Thank you for allowing us to be a positive influence on your children and we look forward to watching our youthful students demonstrate the utmost respect for themselves and others.