Joey & Carla Link
April 15, 2026
How well do your kids think of what others want or need before they think of what pleases themselves? Do they ever offer to help around the house vs. hiding out in their rooms? Are they characterized by being patient and kind with their siblings instead of ignoring them? Do they show appreciation for what they get instead of getting angry when they don’t get their own way? Do they enjoy being with the family?
If you asked your kids (7 yrs. and up) what the word “respect” means, what do you think they would say? To be respectful is to show that you think what others feel, think or want is important enough to put them before what you want.
When we respect someone, we’re acknowledging their good qualities and actions, regardless of whether we agree with all their opinions and choices or not. When someone doesn’t think they need to respect the needs and wants of others, they are showing their heart is full of arrogant pride. They think they are better than others and definitely more important than anyone else.
Kids aren’t naturally respectful. We are all born with a nature that tells us to put ourselves first. That’s Satan’s way to live. It is up to you to teach your kids what respect is and why they should show it to others. The first why is that it is the way God wants us to live. Matthew 7:12 tells us to do to others what you want them to do to you. This is also called the Golden Rule.
When we respect others and feel respected in return, we feel good about the relationships we have and the people we come into contact with. Respecting others means you accept them even when you don’t agree with them. Respecting others builds feelings of trust, safety, stability and security in others and yourself as well.
What do parents need to include when working with their kids to respect others? Start at home. Teach them to ask permission to play with a sibling’s toy, or go into a sibling’s room. Teach them that being thankful for what they have is an everyday thing and they should say it without you having to prompt them. Teach them to listen to what others say instead of talking over them.
Teach them making people wait for them is rude so when you tell them to put what they will need to take to school the next day by the door to do it.
“Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind
let each of you regard one another as more important than himself;
do not merely look out for your own personal interests,
but also for the interests of others.”
Philippians 2:3-4
DEALING WITH SIBLING CONFLICT (2-Part Series)
In Part 1 of this Mom’s Notes, the difference between sibling conflict and sibling rivalry is defined and how to recognize it is clearly outlined. Ways that parents, perhaps unintentionally, promote sibling rivalry are also discussed. In Part 2, ways that parents can deal with conflict resolution among siblings are given.
Parenting Made Practical Podcasts
Respecting a sibling is one thing, but treating them with respect is another. Learn how to deal with disrespectful siblings so they can get along when you are not watching.
Click the title or search Parenting Made Practical in your favorite
podcast app to listen!