Parenting Advice (As I Learn, I Share): Say "Please" When Asking Favor From your Child

I grew up in a family that doesn't use the word "please" very much often. In fact, there is not an exact translation of the word in Tagalog, Ilocano, Itawes, or Ibanag. Only considered as prefix or suffix like "paki-" or "nge" or "man".


I was surprised that in the Visayan language, there is such a thing, which I normally hear that sounds like "palihog".


Growing up and not being able to use "please" a lot of times, I have learned to just say whatever request I have- to people. That is why even in the house, I am not used to using it (redundant). 


But I realized, it's true. Saying "please" should be deliberate. I have seen great results from my son, Matthew. I see a smile in his face and a sense of gladness to serve whenever I use the word "please". Sometimes, I sound very bossy already, just to use the word, I would think of things that somehow, I can apply it. Like a piece of paper, I would tell him "please give me that paper". I feel good that I see a glow in his face whenever I use the word "please". I wanted to teach him to say "please" that is why I am trying to use it, but more than that, I learned from his responses. 


When the word "please" is used, it's so good to do whatever the other person is trying to ask. It is one magic word because it changes the entire meaning of the request. It becomes sweeter, sincere, and you suddenly get a sense of responsibility and "importance". Suddenly, you feel like a hero. :) It's not really for the one requesting, because it is just a mere WORD, but it is more for the one whom the request is directed- to change the mood and it entirely changes what the sentence means or sounds.


Let's try to use PLEASE in our house, work, or whatever we are doing, especially with the kids. We'll definitely see immediate results.


~thanks to Sir G.Alba