Behaviors Parents Need to Stop Letting Their Kids Do in Public

Parenting comes with numerous challenges, especially when it comes to managing children

in public spaces. From grocery stores to restaurants, parents often find themselves navigating the delicate balance between discipline and understanding. However, certain behaviors in public, if left unchecked, can have lasting negative effects on a child’s social development and can create uncomfortable situations for others. As a society, it's important to recognize that some behaviors—while typical of childhood—should be addressed by parents to ensure their children grow into respectful, considerate individuals. Here are some common behaviors that parents need to stop allowing in public:

1. Tantrums and Outbursts

Tantrums are a natural part of child development, especially in younger children, but they should not be allowed to continue unchecked in public settings. These outbursts often occur when a child is frustrated or doesn’t get their way, but allowing a child to scream, cry, or throw themselves on the floor in public places can be disruptive and uncomfortable for everyone around them. While it’s important for parents to show empathy and understand their child’s emotions, they should also work on teaching them how to cope with frustration in more acceptable ways. Ignoring or indulging these tantrums in public only reinforces the behavior and teaches children that acting out is an effective way to get what they want.

2. Interrupting Conversations

Another common behavior that needs to be addressed is interrupting conversations. It’s easy for children to become excited or eager to share their thoughts, but this habit can be disruptive, especially in formal or social settings. When a child continually interrupts others in public, it not only disrupts the flow of the conversation but also teaches them that their voices and opinions are more important than those of others. Parents should model respectful communication by setting expectations for waiting their turn to speak and using polite phrases like “Excuse me” or “Can I say something?”

3. Running Wild in Public Spaces

It’s normal for children to have a lot of energy but allowing them to run unchecked through public spaces such as malls, restaurants, or public transportation is inconsiderate and dangerous. Running through stores, for instance, can not only create obstacles for other shoppers but also puts children at risk of accidents, such as running into people or products. Parents should teach their children the importance of staying close and being mindful of their surroundings, helping them understand the impact of their actions on others.

4. Disrespecting Public Property

Children might not always understand the value of public property, but parents need to teach them that it’s not acceptable to damage or disrespect shared spaces and items. Whether it’s scribbling on walls, breaking toys at the park, or littering, these actions not only harm the community but also reflect poorly on the child’s upbringing. Parents should take the time to explain the importance of respecting the spaces they visit and instill in their children a sense of responsibility for their actions.

5. Using Inappropriate Language

While it’s normal for children to repeat words or phrases they hear, parents should take proactive measures to ensure that their children are not using inappropriate language in public. Swearing, offensive language, or making rude comments can create uncomfortable situations, especially in mixed-age environments. By setting clear boundaries and reinforcing the idea that certain words are not acceptable, parents can help their children understand social norms and appropriate behavior in various settings.

6. Refusing to Follow Basic Etiquette

Basic manners such as saying "please" and "thank you," waiting in line, or respecting personal space are essential life skills that children should be taught early on. Parents who overlook these aspects of behavior in public might find their children interrupting others, taking things without asking, or invading personal space. Encouraging good manners not only helps children interact more positively with others but also fosters a sense of respect and kindness that benefits both the child and those around them.

7. Excessive Screen Time

While devices like smartphones and tablets can be useful in keeping children entertained, excessive screen time in public places can be disruptive and isolating. Children engrossed in their devices might ignore their surroundings, fail to engage with others, or exhibit poor table manners in restaurants. Parents should encourage balanced use of screens, helping children learn to enjoy the present moment, interact with their environment, and engage with other people instead of being absorbed in their devices.

8. Not Saying “Sorry” or Owning Up to Mistakes

Children make mistakes, but it’s important for them to learn how to own up to their actions, especially when they affect others. When a child accidentally bumps into someone or takes something from another child, parents should encourage their child to apologize. Allowing children to get away with not apologizing for their actions can promote selfishness and a lack of empathy. Teaching children the value of making amends and taking responsibility for their actions will help them grow into more compassionate and respectful individuals.

9. Ignoring Safety Rules

Whether it’s running into the street, climbing on things that are unsafe, or refusing to wear a seatbelt, ignoring safety rules can have serious consequences. In public spaces, children may not always understand the risks involved in their actions, and it’s up to parents to reinforce the importance of safety. Ignoring basic safety practices can endanger children themselves and others around them, which is why parents must be vigilant about setting and enforcing boundaries.

10. Being Rude or Entitled

Finally, a sense of entitlement or rude behavior towards others is something that should not be tolerated in public. Whether it’s demanding a toy at a store, cutting in line, or ignoring others in favor of getting their own way, children must be taught the value of patience, fairness, and respect. Parents should guide their children in understanding that not everything they want will come immediately and that behaving rudely or disrespectfully will not be tolerated.

Conclusion

Parenting is a journey of guiding children to become respectful, considerate individuals who can thrive in social environments. While it’s understandable that children may display these behaviors from time to time, parents must step in and address them before they become habits. By setting clear boundaries, teaching empathy, and modeling good behavior, parents can help their children navigate public spaces with confidence and respect. This not only creates a more pleasant experience for others but also sets children on the path to becoming responsible, kind, and socially-aware adults.