![](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Caring_Article_RespectfulBehavior-560x420.jpg)
Respectful Behavior
Show your children the value of good manners.
Here are some ways to help teach these skills:
- Set a good example. Kids learn by watching the adults around them. Say “please” and “thank you” often. These small words tell kids (and others!): You are just as important as I am and you deserve the same respect.
- Respect each other’s privacy. Teach children the importance of knocking on doors and of giving space to people when they need it.
- If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all. Teach children that sometimes the best option is just keeping quiet. It isn’t always necessary to give an opinion.
- Learn to listen. Encourage kids to give their full attention to whoever is speaking. Let them see you making eye contact. Invite kids to ask questions afterward rather than interrupt.
- Have a manners party! Plan a special lunch, snack, or tea party to practice good manners. Offer praise when someone says “please,” uses a napkin, or chews with a closed mouth.
- Pass it on. When children make someone else feel good by using their manners, they will feel good, too.
![Julia and Julia's family helping the community.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PSEG-Video-HelpingHomeNeighbohood-667x500.jpg)
Helping at Home, Helping the Neighborhood
Little acts can make a big difference.
![Printable Helping Caring.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PSEG-Printable-HelpingCaring-ENG-667x500.jpg)
Helping and Caring
Use this checklist with children to set small goals together and help your community!
![Printable Julias Community Mural.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PSEG-Printable-JuliasCommunityMural-ENG-667x500.jpg)
Julia’s Community Mural
There are so many ways to be kind, caring, and helpful in our communities!
![Little Neighbors Can Do Big Things.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PSEG-Video-LittleNeighborsBigThings-667x500.jpg)
Little Neighbors Can Do Big Things
A new friend joins the Little Neighbors Club!
![Printable Playground Helpers.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PSEG-Printable-PlaygroundHelpers-ENG-667x500.jpg)
Playground Helpers
Help the Twiddlebugs find their lost materials to build their playground!
![Abby and Maggie Cadabby helping the community.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PSEG-Video-LittleHelpersBigHelping-667x500.jpg)
Little Helpers, Big Helping
Kids are never too little to make a big difference!
![A Grown-up and child helping out in a community garden.](https://sesameworkshop.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Webinar_LittleNeighbors-667x500.jpg)
Little Neighbors: Fostering Community Connection, Engagement, and Exploration