A key aspect of the education we aim to provide to all our students is based on respect, equality, and tolerance.

Instilling a set of values, preparing them both academically and personally, is essential. One of our main tasks is to guide them throughout their academic journey in everything related to their studies, but we also pay special attention in transmitting a set of core value that will help them both at a young age and in their adult lives.

We believe that education is a basic pillar we must use to prevent the inequality and intolerance that still exists in the 21st century. However, in addition to the work we do at our private school in Valencia, fostering and strengthening these values must also be done at home. The family is one of the main tools that will allow us to promote proper behaviour in our children through relationships based on essential aspects such as equality and respect.

If we can instil habits that unite rather than divide and teach them the importance of respecting others, this will help them in their lives and future social relationships.

 

How to promote respect and tolerance in young children?

To educate our children in values, our attitude and behaviour must reflect what we aim to achieve. A key aspect is the atmosphere at home and the relationships amongst the people who live there.

Here are some guidelines to achieve this goal:

 

1. Avoid stereotypes and battle prejudices

It’s possible that our son or daughter may not conform to the standards society has traditionally imposed. We should not objectify our children by assigning outdated roles that only create more prejudice and encourage negative, archaic behaviours amongst young people.

As educators and parents, it’s our duty to show that there’s nothing wrong with being different, as long as children feel comfortable with who they are, regardless of their gender. Respect for diversity is crucial because every person is unique, with their own interests, and loving them means accepting them as they are.

Another important aspect is teaching children that we are all capable of achieving whatever we set our minds to. We must make it clear that gender is not a barrier or a limitation to what we can or cannot do in life. It’s essential to dismantle these stereotypes to help our children be happier whilst learning to respect others and themselves.

 

2. Be a role model

We are the mirror in which our children look, and we must be aware of this. The younger they are, the more they will imitate our actions and behaviours, so we must set a good example for them to follow:

  • Watching our language and behaviour towards others is crucial to achieving our goal.
  • The relationships we maintain at home with other family members and close friends also have a significant impact on them.

In line with the above, we must be aware that to educate in equality, adults cannot assign predetermined roles based on their children’s gender. This primarily refers to the work we do at home.

Therefore, it’s necessary for the entire family, from the youngest to the oldest, to share household responsibilities without distinctions, only considering each person’s abilities based on their age. This will help children develop a mindset where gender inequality has no place, as it doesn’t condition their daily lives, and everyone is seen and treated as equals.

 

3. Foster an attitude of respect toward others

From a young age, we must teach children good behavioural habits, so they adopt them both at school and at home. For example:

  • The importance of respectful dialogue.
  • Avoiding raising their voices.
  • Understanding that they are not always right.

This will help them see things differently, with a more open mind and a positive attitude. On the other hand, if we allow behaviours where they don’t have to do anything because adults do everything for them, or if we indulge all their whims, we will only foster selfish attitudes where they always believe they are right and rely on others to do things for them.

We must lead by example. Saying phrases like “do this because it’s the right thing” or “this is how it is because I say so” makes no sense if we, as adults, act contrary to what we preach.

If they see us respecting both material things and people, they will be the first to adopt an attitude of respect, just as they’ve seen us do. Setting an example is the best way to foster an attitude based on the values we want to instil in them.

 

4. Establish both privileges and responsibilities

Just as at school, children must follow certain rules at home. They need to understand that, even though they are young, they have responsibilities to fulfil, and these will increase as they grow. If children respond correctly to the rules and fulfil their obligations, we should also reward their behaviour by granting them some autonomy, always considering their age.

Overprotecting children is not a positive approach, as it only contributes to them living in fear and developing the false idea that the world is a dangerous place. Ultimately, this will result in fearful children who are unable to do things for themselves and are overly dependent.

Just as students at school learn new skills every day and build self-confidence, children at home should also gradually take on more responsibilities and perform tasks autonomously, always under supervision but with some freedom to develop both their academic and personal skills.

 

5. Monitor our children’s use of the internet, television, and videogames

In a completely technological world, where children of all ages navigate the internet and use electronic devices with ease, we must monitor the content they access, as it can sometimes:

  • Be inappropriate for their age.
  • Promote negative behaviours.

As parents and educators, it’s our responsibility to teach children how to use these tools properly. These tools can be truly beneficial for their education, but they must learn to use them correctly.

At BSV, the use of computers and tablets is part of the education our students receive from Primary. Through various applications, children develop their knowledge whilst having fun learning. At home, they can do the same under adult supervision, as it can help them improve their English, Maths skills, or watch educational videos appropriate for their age.

Today, it’s essential for our students to make responsible use of new technologies. These will accompany them throughout their adolescent and adult lives, and it’s up to us as parents and educators to guide and instruct them properly.