Power of Positive Social Behavior

  Children who come to school with some experience of rules, kindness, and respectful behavior will have an easier time getting along and be happier in school. Adults can help children form good manners by setting an example at home and helping them practice some of the basics as they interact with others. Life will be easier at home too!   

Suggestions from Teachers

 Learning these social skills can be fun by using little routines and games.

1. Use the words “Please” and “Thank-you.” Besides setting the example, you may need use gentle reminders often.

2. Remind children to “use words to ask for help or express your feelings.”  Be sure you are listening patiently as this might take some time.

3. “Listen quietly when someone else is talking.”  Practice during conversations at mealtime.  Praise when someone is being a “good listener.”

4.  Participate in helping to pick up toys, craft materials, etc. or clearing the table.  Make it a game by singing a pick-up song, playing  favorite music, or having a little contest as a part of an established routine. Pick up together when you can. Point out that when materials are picked up they are easier to find next play time. This is known as a “kid reason” for doing something.

5.  Share willingly with others. You can start out by asking your baby for a bite of his food or one of the Cheerios. Little ones love this “game”.  Later talk about cutting treats in half to share or sharing space on the couch.

6.  Use an “inside voice” when playing in the house.  Demonstrate and PRACTICE the difference between inside, outside, and whispering voices.

7. Take turns with others. Try this with simple games where taking turns is expected (cards, Candyland, etc.). Practice “Now it is your turn.” at meal time, sharing crayons or choosing a TV  show.

9.  Use kind language with other people.  Talk about how kindness makes others feel good and they are more likely to help you.  Adults may need to make some words children hear  “off limits” as they are inappropriate in your family and at school.

11. Hang up your own clothing or backpack. Make this easy by setting a good example and providing pegs and containers kid-friendly.

12.  Don’t be a “tattle-tale” unless it is important for safety.

13. Use polite phone behavior when answering and saying good-bye.

14. Greet people and look at them.  Say “good-bye” in a friendly way.

  While adult modeling and PRACTICE are probably the best way for children to learn good social behavior, here are some library books  to help adult/child discussion:

“Little Blue Truck Leads the Way” by A. Schutle, “Please Say Please,” by Cuyler, the Berenstain Bear books, “You Are Friendly” by Snow.

Look for more activities like these online at Grandparents Teach, Too and at WNMU Public Radio Learning through the Seasons Podcasts 

Photo: Melinda. kids1.jpg. May 2003. Pics4Learning. 28 Apr 2013