One of the things my husband and I as parents consider to be important is our children’s ability to interact with adults. We want them to be able to respond properly when an adult addresses them by looking the person in the eye and engaging them.
This was brought back to mind last week when one of our daughters was answering questions from a librarian. She did a good job of speaking clearly and answering the questions that were asked, but failed to look the lady in the eye. As I thought about the moment later on, I began to wonder how much of this stems from the fact that I often talk to the girls while I’m actually distracted by something else that I’m doing.
When they were younger we role played situations like the one I mentioned above, but it’s not an exercise we’ve practiced in a long time. They enjoyed having me play the adult; they would take turns being the one to “meet” me. We would practice shaking hands, exchanging greetings and conversing. I think we may need to have another round of that soon and review the manners we discussed then. I also want to make a conscious effort several times a day to have conversations with each other where we engage face to face.
Is this a skill you have emphasized with your children? If so, please share any tips you have on reinforcing it.
photo courtesy public domain pictures
Good advice. Now that I think about it I am guilty of talking to Madison while I'm busy doing something else and not making eye contact with her. Thanks for giving me something to work on.
Hi! It is lovley to 'meet' you. I saw you over at Steady Mom this morning. I totally agree with you here and it is something that I try to work on with my boys. My eldest boy is actually pretty good at making eye contact and engaging with adults. However my 3 year old is struggling. We will keep working on it as I believe it stems from being 'shy'. Also his brother tends to talk over the top of him which is something else we need to work on!!! Thanks for the inspiration.