Parents and caregivers hold a pivotal role in facilitating the development of self-respect and nurturing the ability of children to cultivate respectful relationships with others. By fostering a broadening network of secure relationships, children not only gain confidence but also experience a sense of being respected and valued. This nurtures their capacity to acknowledge and honor the emotions of others, fostering positive interactions and social engagement.

Respectful relationships also help your child feel safe, encouraged, valued, understood and accepted.

Benefits for children:

• Improved academic outcomes

• More positive social behaviour

• Improve sense of self-confidence

• Promote healthy self-expression and awareness of themselves and others

• Feel accepted, positive and free to be themselves

Tips on how to build a respectful relationship with your child:

• Be a good listener

• Understand their point of view

• Express your needs and wants in a direct, calm and respectful way

• Respond in a timely manner if they request something

• Acknowledge what they do well

• Let your children know you appreciate them

• Emphasise their strengths, not weaknesses

• Ensure your humour is sensitive to others’ feelings and avoid embarrassing them

• Speak directly with others, don’t talk behind their back

• Allow them space if they need it