KIDS,GET AN EARLY START

Inculcating our children with wholesome values, principles, etiquette and social graces in their early years is a good way to help them make it a way of life right from the start. Ingraining them with the importance of such basic guiding principles will support them to live their lives within society in a responsible manner.

These guiding principles begin at home and are re-enforced at school.

Getting children to follow the appropriate path is an art and the best way to start is to practise what one preaches - act and behave as you'd want for them to and you will notice that they begin to 'ape' what they see around them.
A few guiding principles that children would need to be taught are:

• To be silent and fold their hands in prayer at all places of worship.

• To treat all individuals — domestic household staff, school staff, store keepers, etc. — with equal respect irrespective of the social background by being polite and respectful.

• To speak softly, politely and use 'please', 'thank you', 'sorry' and 'excuse me' at the appropriate time/s.

• To maintain hygiene habits — brushing teeth, bathing — morning, after school, physical activity, washing their hands before / after meals.

• To never waste food.

• To clean their noses or teeth in the bathroom and not in company.

• To greet everyone they are introduced to (this is after they have been able to comprehend the difference between friends and strangers).

• To never interrupt people talking.

• To knock on doors before entering.

• To stay in the guest area (unless asked otherwise) of friends homes and not invade the privacy of the household.

• To ask for permission to use something that does not belong to them.

• To collect and dispose litter — at home, school, picnics — in the garbage bin.

• To allow all peers a fair chance at games played at home, school, picnics and parties.

• To clear up their work or play space after any activity at home or out.

• To never use slang words.