Respect. This word is often the character trait most people think can improve at home, school and within the community. There are a lot of opinions about what respect looks and sounds like. So, create a Family of Respect Checklist with your children about what respect looks and sounds like in your home. Consider their ideas and ensure everyone knows what it means to be respectful. Once you have completed the checklist you can laminate it or put it in a sheet protector and use wet erase markers to check yourselves in the respect you are demonstrating each day. Hang it in a prominent place in your home and use this checklist when your child needs reminded about what it means to be respectful.
Example Family of Respect Checklist
What it sounds like:
- Using an inside voice when speaking
- Taking deep breaths and thinking before you speak
- Using kind words with our family and friends
- Telling the truth
What it looks like:
- Picking up after yourself when you make a mess
- Helping with family chores without having to be asked
- Making your bed each morning
- Sharing your things with your siblings
Questions to consider when building your Family of Respect Checklist
- What is a way you show respect to our family? Mom/Dad? Siblings? Yourself? Our home?
- What actions make you feel respected?
- When do you feel disrespected?
- What would it sound like to be respectful?
- What is a way you can show respect?