Kids are anticipating summer and it won’t be long before all area schools will be closed for the summer break. As your kids prepare for fun, don’t let them forget about their manners.
Primrose Schools know how difficult it can be to keep everything running smoothly – especially during summer months when school is out. But they also offer some great tips to help you support your child’s development of self-control and empathy, along with independence, by giving him or her options and making it fun to learn.
In their recent “Pointers for Parents” newsletter, they offer these suggestions to help kids all year long:
- Be a role model. Take advantage of your toddler’s desire to mimic you by modeling responsible actions. As you do these things, talk about why it’s going to be helpful to you and/or to others.
- Assign simple tasks. Ask your child to help you pick up toys, put napkins on the table or throw paper into the recycling bin. Once again, talk about how her efforts help you and others. Completing tasks that have meaning will contribute to her confidence, and plant a seed about the importance of helping others.
- Connect actions to consequences. The next time your child does something you don’t like, first ask yourself why she did what she did? Is it something you may have contributed to? If so, explain the consequences of your actions for you and for her.
- Respond to their efforts! Encourage your child’s sense of responsibility by pointing out how important and appreciated his actions are. Say “thank you” when he does what you ask, and when appropriate, point out how his actions have helped others.
Make it fun for kids to learn by encouraging, recognizing, and rewarding them. Simple words like “thank you”, “great job”, and “I’m so proud of you” will make it easier for them to remember good manners.
Summer Camps
If you’re looking for more summer fun, then check out the 2012 Summer Camp, Expedition Summer – The Adventure Awaits! at Primrose. They offer plenty of options for all ages and with a variety of themes. Primrose also offers lots of part-time and full-time options for child care throughout the year.
Enjoy the summer with your kids and encourage learning with these great tips from Primrose Schools.
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