A simple word like ‘Sorry’ sets almost everything right. This is a humbling experience and children must be taught to speak this word during moments when things go out of hand. Along with simple virtues about self respect and dignity, apologizing is only a way to build trust. Harboring negative thoughts for a long time is self destructive. It is perfectly fine as a parent to apologize to your child when you have been rude.

 

Many times we use the wrong tone to communicate with our child. Harsh language spoils the mood of the company and hence saying ‘sorry’ certainly has a balming effect. When we apologize mutually to each other or to our child, they realize that there is nothing so big as an ego when it comes to close people. A child’s ego is fragile and also sensitive. Do not goad your child to apologize or create a scene in front of others.

 

I remember when my daughter refused to apologize to her coach for a rude statement. I tried coaxing her but she was too embarrassed. The other students peering over her was another cause of anxiety. I apologized to her coach and brought her home. After a feasty breakfast I made her realize that it was a kind of bad behavior. She understood and the next session went up to her coach and apologized. The coach was overwhelmed too.

 

Children often get into quarrels and it is wise not to intervene in their exchange. Kids forget and patch up sooner than expected. A simple sorry, handshake and hug is also the part of growing. As adults these simple acts bear a relation to our conduct. A timely sorry on realizing a fault can mend so many lives.

 

In case the child is too small to understand the concept of apologizing then it is better to go about it gently. It will not be right to make the child force out a ‘sorry’ in front of a crowd irrespective of how close the bond is. Condescending the child will never bring out positive change in them. Include a sorry statement in the Good night talk-prayer with the child’s favorite deity. Concluding the night with a positive assurance will enhance the child’s perspective in a positive way.