Well... with my children we acted out things. First I took her dolls and I made them act polite to each other .... then I took two other dolls and I made one of those dolls say something mean to the other.... Then I said, "Which one do you think was not nice?" It was clear to them which one wasn't nice. Then I said, "Yes that was being very rude or not nice"..... I also told them that sometimes, grown ups say things that are not true or can be rude, but we love all people so we always try to treat them the way that Jesus treated everyone... that is how we respect our elders. I also let them know that if someone was mean to them, to please come tell me so that I could make sure I speak to the other adult, but that they should never be mean (or ugly) to an adult or even another child. We always act with love because we love all people, just as Jesus does. Roll playing is an excellent way to show children how they should behave ... toys are the best .. ESP Barbies
when you are out and about be overly polite..... just to stress the point of being polite, saying thank you and please and such when you are at the stores, saying excuse me when necessary, and perhaps there are some books to check out at the library
Polite behavior and speaking kindly are learned by example. I always point out to our grand kids (our kids are 14 and older now) when someone is being rude or speaking in an unkind manner. I hate this "It's all about me!" attitude I see so much anymore and I try to teach patience, kindness and understanding whenever possible.
I agree with Sloan127. Mine are older now, but in the early years, I'd always point out when someone was rude or unkind and also tried to display kindness and love myself (Fruitages of the Spirit) to set a good example. If you are a Believer and read Bible stories together, you could highlight the Golden Rule (Do Unto Others...).
