“SHUT UP!” was the scream that echoed down the stairs.
“MOMMMM! “Charlie took my math book and won't give it back,” wailed Carley, Charlie’s 11-year-old twin.
“Knock it off and get your butts back in your room. I’m not gonna say it again!” Dad commanded as he slammed the closet door moments after Molly whapped Nick on the head.
That is what being cooped up and confined can look and sound like when patience runs short and nerves get frayed. If you’re starting to see and hear more disrespectful behaviors (or you’re starting to get a little short with the kids and spouse) stop and remember this seven-letter word:
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Don’t let the arguing and fighting get out of hand. Remind your family of the values and behaviors you expect from them, and then show them with your own actions. If you treat your children with consideration and respect, the odds are good that they will treat others in a similar way. When you demonstrate how to be charitable, forgiving, patient and understanding, it’s more likely they will be charitable, forgiving, patient and understanding with others, too. And those behaviors are crucial now, especially as schooling and working at home continues.
To reinforce and remind the family of your expectations, create a “Respect Dos and Don’ts” visual reminder. It can look something like this:
Do
- Treat others the way you want to be treated.
- Show tolerance and be accepting of differences.
- Be courteous and use good manners.
- Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements.
Don't
- Insult or make fun of others.
- Offend others with bad language.
- Threaten, hit or hurt anyone.
- Argue, pout or throw things.
Respect
- Be tolerant of differences.
- Use good manners and language.
- Be considerate of others' feelings.
- Don't threaten, hit or hurt anyone.
- Deal peacefully with anger, insults and disagreements.
Add your own “Dos” and Don’ts” to match the behaviors happening in your house and the ages of your children. Here's a download to help you get started:
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