4 Ways To Teach Your Child Humility

For the past couple of weeks, my hubby and I have been attempting to teach Ju a few new words and phrases. Although he still primarily speaks baby gibberish, he does know how to say words like ‘Mom’, ‘Dad’, and ‘Bye’. 

Currently his new favorite word is ‘Thank You’ – which sounds more like ‘Tank Que’ – but I’m absolutely loving it!

He has also been mommy’s little helper lately and loves to clap once he’s done helping ‘clean up’. 

Although I know that it’s all apart of his development at this age, it reminded me that humility is an extremely important characteristic to instill in our children- especially while they’re young!

Humility: (adj) freedom from pride or arrogance; modest or meek in spirit or manner.
– Merriam-Webster

Don’t you just love that definition?!

I knew that I wanted to be intentional about teaching Ju humility but I had no idea where to start. 

After a whole lot of brainstorming and a little trail and error, I’ve discovered a few super easy ways that you can use to teach your little ones humility. 

Teach Them To Be Helpful

Being helpful is such a core element of what it means to be humble. By teaching children to be helpful, you’re teaching them to put themselves aside to help someone else. 

Eventually your child will learn to recognize when there is a need and you may be surprised at how eager they are to help.

There are a ton of ways that you can teach your little one to be helpful.

It can be something as small as opening a door for someone. Or if you have a younger child like I do, you could teach them to be helpful by encouraging them to assist you as you pick up their toys. 

I’ve tried this technique with Ju and it’s been amazing to see just how excited he is to help.

And of course, always praise your little one for all their hard work!

Teach Them To Be Apologetic

A huge part of being humble is being genuinely apologetic when mistakes are made. Although my son hasn’t yet developed empathy (most children don’t until they’re at least 18mo), it’s important that I model it for him in the meantime.

I also believe that it’s important to apologize to my son if I’ve wronged him in any way. While he may not fully understand now, I believe that it’s okay for children to see their parents put their pride aside and acknowledge their children’s feelings. 

I’ve done this a couple of times and got hugs and kisses in return, so I think it’s safe to say that it’s paying off!

Instill Self-Confidence In Them

It’s soo soo important to constantly encourage and build-up your children’s view of themselves.

All kids should know that they can do anything they put their mind to.

Children should never be expected to be someone they’re not & they should never have feel the need compare themselves to others. 

By teaching your little ones to love who they are, they’ll learn that who they are on the inside is more important that outside appearances and having fancy things. 

Additionally, by instilling self-confidence in your child, they’d have an easier time properly valuing everyone else and be more prone to serving others. 

Teach Them To Be Thankful

When I was growing up, my parents taught me to be grateful for everything that I had – especially the necessities (food, roof over my head, etc)!

As a result, I believe it’s important to teach our kids that material possessions are a lot less important than things like having a loving family and good health!

Additionally, I believe it’s a great idea to teach children how to say “please” and “thank you” at a very young age.

I’d always say ‘Thank You’ to Ju whenever he gave me something long, before he understood what ‘Thank You’ meant. 

Most children pick up on these basic manners rather quickly and eventually grow to understand that it’s an integral sign of respect.

While I hope these tips are helpful, remember that no two families are the same. When teaching your children humility, it’s always best to trust your instincts.

Besides, you’re the one who knows your children best!

Since children learn by example, it’s vitally important that we strive to lead a life of humility as well.

It does no good to teach these values, when you’re own life reflects the complete opposite.

Although, children don’t learn humility overnight, all it takes is a little love, patience, and persistence. And once it becomes instilled in them, it’s a trait that they’ll have forever.

‘Tank Que’ for reading!