Children can push us to the limit with their behavior, especially when they disrespect us. If we do not have the necessary tools we can cause the situation to become complicated instead of solving it.
By not having a parent handbook, we instinctively respond to challenges. Sometimes by excess and others by default, we can make everything worse and lose our cool. That is why we leave you some tips on what are the best strategies to act in the face of a lack of respect from your child.
Respect, one of the key values of education
As parents we are obliged to educate our children in values. At school they learn things, but at home the foundations of their education are laid that will accompany them throughout their lives. Children need adults to take charge of their education, show them to respect and be respected.
In the old days, most parents assumed that children should give unconditional respect. It was an authoritarian and domineering education. Today children are treated between cotton wool so that they do not get traumatized. It is a permissive and unsafe education. You don't have to go to one extreme or the other. Children must learn what respect is, and we must also respect them to avoid difficult situations.
How not to act when your child disrespects your child
- Disrespect them too. If we respond with more of the same to a lack of respect, we are doing ourselves a disservice. The screams, threats and insults the only thing we will achieve is that they learn more ways to disrespect, and that they also see it as something normal (If my parents do it, it can be done). It will make the situation worse, mistrust is created and they feel undervalued. Do not get on the same level, do not lose your cool.
- Doing nothing. If their disrespectful behaviors have no consequences, they will do it more times. Children need limits and many times they test us to see how far they can go. We must be firm and make the rules clear, and not change our minds overnight. If not, it will create confusion for you.
How to deal with a lack of respect from your child
- Explain that it is disrespectful behavior. Show him what disrespectful behavior is at all times and what will happen if he does. You must be consistent, explain to them that it is not a correct way to answer and show them the appropriate way. You have to be firm, clear and make clear what is allowed at home and what is not.
- Rules of respect at home. In each home, rules of coexistence should be created, including respectful behavior. And there is not only the person himself, but also in his space and his personal things. Likewise, the consequences of a lack of respect must be agreed.
- Show respect. The example is the best school. A climate of respect should reign in the home. You must be the first to respect the rules. Teach him how to treat others respectfully so that it will be easier for him to follow your example.
- Reinforce their respectful behavior. It's okay to signal him when he's doing something disrespectful but also reinforce his good behavior. Do it with praise, not rewards.
- Apply consequences when necessary. When you already know what disrespectful behavior is and know the consequences, you have to be consistent. Don't be afraid of his reaction, you are teaching him how to behave in life. In no case should you allow them to insult you, even if they are very small.
Respect is the foundation of education. We must educate our children in values so that tomorrow they know how to relate to their environment in a correct, honest and considerate way. It can be difficult at first, but with practice you will know how to respond, and you will be more effective.
Why remember ... think well what values you want to transmit to your child, respect is achieved with respect.
Excellent article, thanks for the information. As I read I realize that they follow our examples, we as parents or children make these mistakes first.