The Pandemic has helped some people forget about social skills, such as greeting one another. Many times I read emails that do not contain a greeting, it just jumps straight to the point. What happened to saying “hello” and asking each other “how are you doing?” Greeting others is a social skill that is closely connected to the core value “respect.” Practice greeting each other:
- Look the other person in the eyes.
- Say in a kind way, “hi or hello.”
- Ask in a kind way, “how are you doing?” Wait for a response. Be kind and interested in others.
These three steps seem so difficult especially when individuals do not know one another well. This social skill is not just for children/scholars, but for the adults too; adults should model social skills for children and young adults. If you are a teacher, parent, or both, you should be modeling for your children and scholars appropriate and acceptable social skills. We have been hiding behind the screens of our devices for so long until we do not know how to interact with each other in a “kind, respectful way.” Maybe we (adults) are out of practice too, but let’s begin practicing this week with our children and scholars. So let’s greet each other with a smile.
Be Positive on Purpose! – Dr. V. Elliott