The first step we must take is to establish respect among the young individuals in our lives. Respect entails valuing others and treating them with dignity and kindness. At NLP4Kids, we firmly believe that respect begins with self-respect. By learning to respect ourselves, we can better understand the significance of respecting others. It is highly beneficial to inquire, “What does respect mean to you?”

It is also advantageous to identify areas where your ideas may align or differ, as children frequently encounter the term respect in the classroom. Often, they associate respect with following authority. This could involve listening or being quiet, which can indeed demonstrate respect in a classroom setting. However, these actions do not necessarily encompass the fundamental aspects of respect. For instance, you can hold a different opinion from someone and still be respectful. You can express your own viewpoint and still exhibit respect. Therefore, it is crucial to explore these aspects to ensure that both parties have a clear understanding of the request before making it.

In order to instil respect in children, it is crucial for parents and educators to serve as role models by exhibiting respectful behaviour. This entails treating children with kindness and empathy, attentively addressing their needs and concerns, and establishing clear boundaries and expectations. Additionally, we educate children on how to communicate respectfully through the use of positive language, active listening, and empathy. We firmly believe that the development of respect is an ongoing process that necessitates practice and patience. It is essential to bear in mind that each child is unique and may respond differently to various approaches. By employing NLP techniques and employing positive reinforcement, we can assist children in cultivating a strong sense of self-respect and acquiring the ability to treat others with kindness and compassion.

We will also ensure that we are showcasing it to one another, which is another crucial aspect. Respect should not be a one-sided affair. It is even more vital for you, as the parent or professional, to exhibit respect towards them because they are imitating your behaviour. They are observing and learning from you, and you cannot expect respect from a child if you are not demonstrating it and setting a good example. As a parting piece of advice, if you desire respect from the children and young individuals in your life, it is important to have a clear understanding of what respect means to both parties. Additionally, ensure that you are leading by example and displaying the respect that you wish to receive from them.

For further advice, join the NLP4Kids membership here for loads of NLP resources and tools.

By Gemma Bailey
www.NLP4Kids.org/gemma-bailey