Question: How do you teach a child to say “please” when they want something?
Certainly! Teaching children to use polite words like “please & thank-you” is essential for their social development and also training them in the way of the Lord. Here are some strategies you can try:
- Model the Words: Modelling is crucial. Use the words “please” and “thank you” frequently in your conversations. For instance, say things like, “Can you please pick up your toys?” or “Thank you for sharing so nicely!” When you model often, your child learns the words, their context, and how to use them.
- Structured Contexts: In structured situations, ask your child to repeat after you. For example, if they want a toy, model saying, “Doll, please!” and encourage them to repeat the phrase.
- Sign Language: Introduce basic sign language. Teach the sign for “please” alongside the spoken word. Repetition helps reinforce learning.
- Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child when they use polite words. Say, “Great job saying ‘please’!” Positive reinforcement encourages repetition.
- Be Patient: Understand that learning takes time. Be patient and consistent. Celebrate small victories.
- Natural Language Modelling: Consider your child’s current communication level. If they’re not yet using sentences or phrases, focus on functional words first (e.g., “milk,” “ball”). Later, introduce “please” and “thank you.”
- Prompting Word Reminder: When your child forgets, gently remind them: “What’s the special word?” or “How do we ask nicely?”
- Teach them from an early age the values of God’s Kingdom: Let your children know in an age-appropriate way that the Bible emphasizes the importance of courtesy and kindness in our interactions with others. Colossians 4:6:“Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.”
Remember, consistency and positive reinforcement go a long way in teaching good manners. Also remember to implant into your children the values of God’s word.
