How to teach children to thank others

Acknowledgments are an important part of communication that shows respect for someone. This expression also makes you a good person and behaves politely. Even though it sounds simple, expressions of gratitude need to be taught as early as possible so that your little one understands how to appreciate the efforts, gifts, and help of others. So, how do you teach children so that they understand the importance of being grateful?

How to teach children to thank others

Children may be taught how to say "please" and "sorry" more often, even though expressions of gratitude are just as important. Here are some tips you can do.

1. Show, not command

Children usually do their parents' orders because they feel obliged to obey them. It may be okay to apply this principle when you are training your child to do his duty. However, it's different when you teach children how to behave.

Be a good model for your little one. If you want your child to say thank you, then you have to model it and not just command him to do so. Start by thanking your spouse, the cashier helping you at the convenience store, or the security guard helping you cross the street.

2. Say thank you to the child

Apart from having the right to play, your little one also has obligations such as studying, tidying up toys, or making his own bed. You can set a good example by saying thank you when he has done his duty well.

This method is quite effective in teaching your child the importance of being grateful for the efforts of others. He will also feel more appreciated so that he is more enthusiastic about doing his duties as a child.

3. Teach you to sincerely thank

Educating a child to be grateful may be easy for some parents, but teaching him or her how to sincerely thank him is another matter. The trick again is to set an example for the child.

You don't need to always say thank you for every little thing your child does. Instead, express your gratitude when he does something meaningful. Also teach the reasons why saying thanks is important. That way, he will understand that a thank you is not just a normative greeting.

4. Remind children when they forget

How to teach children to be thankful is not an instant process. Sometimes, your child may forget to say thank you even though you have given the example. This is normal because children can easily get distracted, especially when they want something.

If your baby forgets to say thank you, then remind him in a kind way. Repeat patiently and over time the good behavior will become a habit. Your little one will also learn that he can get what he wants if he asks for it in a polite way.

5. Don't be pushy, let alone threaten

Some parents make mistakes when educating their children. One common mistake is threatening children when they are not being nice, for example by saying, "If you don't say thank you, you won't get a toy."

Avoid behaviors that give the impression that forgetting to thank you is embarrassing and is definitely wrong. Try to be patient and consistent with giving examples until the child gets used to it. When your child is able to sincerely thank him, appreciate him by hugging or kissing his forehead.

Children learn by imitating the behavior of those closest to them. Whichever method you use to teach your child to be grateful, the key is to be role models which is good for him. Through the behavior of you and your partner, children will learn and understand that expressions of gratitude are important things that are full of meaning.