CAN YOU HANDLE “GENTLE REMINDERS”?

CAN YOU HANDLE “GENTLE REMINDERS”?

Some days it is easier to “borrow” an idea for a blog from someone else, rather than create one myself. Earlier, I wrote a blog suggesting that the rules of conduct for students in schools should be posted like the rules for good sportsmanship that are posted in our local soccer facilities. It appears a “soul-mind” similar to mine, exists in Portugal. A school in that country has posted the following Rules for Parents to Remember. I certainly thought that it was well worth borrowing. Their sign read:

“Dear parents,

1. We would like to remind you that magic words such as hello, please, you’re welcome, I’m sorry, and thank you, all begin to be learned at home

2. It’s also at home that children learn to be honest, to be on time, diligent, show friends their sympathy, as well as show utmost respect for their elders and all teachers.

3. Home is where they learn to be clean, not talk with their mouths full, and how/where to properly dispose of garbage.

4. Home is also where they learn to be organized, to take good care of their belongings, and that it’s not ok to touch others.

5. Here at school, on the other hand, we teach language, math, history, geography, physics, sciences, and physical education. We only reinforce the education that children receive at home from their parents.”( the bold face is my enhancement)

I am sure if the above were posted in our schools it would generate a lot of discussion and reaction from parents. And I am not sure that all of it would be positive! Most parents probably think that they are already teaching their children the above good manners and habits, but many teachers would challenge that notion through their daily observations. Some parents might object to being lectured or talked down to and it might stir up more objections than acceptance. 

Although most of us do not like to be told what we should do, (including myself) sometimes a gentle reminder of some very basic principles and values is a good idea. It might just make us stop for a moment of reflection in our busy schedules and cause us to do a little soul searching. I certainly don’t think the message can do any harm!