One thing adults complain about is how today’s youth has lost a sense of respect for their elders. A way to show respect is in how we teach our children to address grown ups. In today’s casual society often grown ups will allow children to call them by their first name. This is not always an issue but when authority is breached and adults try to come down to the level of the child it is counterproductive to attaining respect. A teacher who insists on going on a first name basis may lose a sense of respect from his students. A teacher is not “one of the guys” and confusing this will cause issues. A respectful distance needs to be kept between adults and children so roles are clearly defined.
Ways to Properly Address an Adult:
To express respect for an older man it is proper to use Mr. or Sir.
To express respect for an older woman it is proper to use Mrs. or Miss.
A less formal way to address an adult is by using the adult’s first name with the proper title such as Mr. Tom, Miss Diane, or Mrs. Becky.
Family members can be addressed as Uncle Burt, Aunt Betty, or Grandpa Bob. Of course families all have their own traditions and ways to greet and address one another. Teach what is appropriate for your family.
Handshaking: To handshake or not to handshake
It is proper for all men of any age to greet each other with a firm handshake. It should be taught at a young age so it becomes common practice. It warms the heart of an older man to see a young man extend his hand for handshake. It is the polite way to for men to greet each other and shows respect.
Traditionally, when men greet women they are to wait to see if the woman extends her hand first. If she does he is traditionally just nods his head or smiles in acknowledgement. However, it is considered polite for a woman to shake a man’s hand and it is better to offer your hand then not to.
Practice handshaking with your children today!