Page 95 - Choosing a Child Care Center

IMPORTANT LIFE SKILLS FOR KIDS

e all want to raise well-mannered children, but
W how and when do you start? Parents are the
best role models for teaching children manners. No
matter how young they are, children are always
learning by imitation. Parents and caregivers must
model the behavior they want to see in children
because the children are always watching. Here are
some guidelines for what to teach when:

Babies—(0-1 years)
Babies will often grab at faces or clothing when
they don’t have speech yet, to get their caregiver’s
attention when they want something. Teach your
baby not to grab at someone’s face, hair, or clothing
by gently taking their hand and showing them how to
touch softly or stroke a pet’s back. As they get older,
gentleness will translate into politeness. Notice the
tone of your voice when speaking to your baby. Use a
soft, friendly tone, and use “please and thank you”
often in your everyday conversations. Your baby will
imitate this as she learns to speak.

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