Encourage the young to ask ...

CQ was reading last week's Weekend Bulletin, when a portion of an article caught CQ's attention.

The first two paragraphs made CQ smile. Is it true that the local young are not being encouraged to ask questions? And if they do open their mouths to ask questions, they are marked for being disrespectful!?

So, in order to show respect, the young will conform to what are being told to them not to do. That means they are being obedient. If they disobey, then they are being disrespect?

Respect and Obedient are two different 'characters'. Yes! Naturally these should be instilled and nurtured when the young are growing up. Encouraging them to ask questions when they are doubtful, does not deemed the young to be disrespect nor disobedient. But if they are asking senseless questions, then be tactful to make them stop! Do not embarrass them by shouting at them to stop.

One of the most important things parents can teach their children is respect. Parents play a significant role and have the most influence in molding their children to become respectful individuals. Respect is not the same as obedience. When children obey, that means they are afraid. However, if they respect you, then they will obey because they know you have their best interest at heart.

The best way to teach our children the meaning of respect is to show respect. When they experience respect, they will know what it feels like and will begin to understand how important respect is ...and being obedient will come naturally.

Respect is an attitude. Being respectful is being responsible and it will help a child not only in school but in his/her life later on. Like adults, children too have human dignity. If we want our children to be respectful, we as parents and peers must also be respectful ourselves. Remember! Children are our mirrors. If a child shows respect in his/her home, it is likely the child will show it outside the home too.

Therefore, when the young are asking questions (irregardless whether logical or illogical), that means their minds and brains are working perfectly well. If they don't ask questions, then they are not thinking.


??? Never feel shy to open your mouth to ask questions when in doubt.