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"Good manners are our culture," is a phrase that is often promoted
in the media about the culture of our society. However, is it still being
practiced by all members of society today? It is evident in television screens
that various social problems are prevalent among today's younger generation. The
influence of technology, especially social media, has affected their lifestyles
to the point where they forget to practice our culture. Therefore, leaders of
the country and society need to work together to find effective solutions to
this dilemma so that the younger generation can become high-skilled and morally
upright individuals. As the Malay proverb goes, bend the bamboo while it is
still a shoot. In my opinion, it is the role of parents to shape children's
manners and language.
The primary obligation of being parents is to raise children with the
best character. Thus, the role to be played is to become role models for
children to shape their manners and language. From birth, we will inevitably see
our parents as an example in everything in our lives. Parents can show an
example of good manners by communicating with the elderly, such as their
grandparents, with respect by using greetings and speaking in a tone of voice
that is not rude to them. Respect is an essential element in the practice of
good manners. If we want to be respected, we must first show respect. This also
applies to the character of children because the Malay proverb says that the
father is flawed, and so are the children. In conclusion, being a role model for
children is the most important role that parents must play.
Another role that can be implemented in shaping children's manners and
language is by closely monitoring their activities and life events. Parents
should be aware of every aspect of their children's lives, such as the
activities they do at school, leisure time, and things they often do as hobbies.
With this attitude, children will respect and seek good advice from their
parents about their lives. Another example is if children like to spend time
playing video games, ensure that they play with caution and not affect their
development in other aspects of their lives. Children can be likened to a white
cloth, and parents are the ones who shape the color of their lives. With good
guidance and support, they can become successful individuals with good manners.
At the same time, parents should ensure that their children's
association is among those with good manners. This matter is crucial because
children's development does not only occur at home. The time they spend at
school and other activities with friends is vital in shaping their
personalities. An Arabic proverb once said, "If you are friends with a perfume
seller, you will smell good, and if you are friends with a blacksmith, you will
feel the heat." With the transition of social activities to the online world, it
should give parents an advantage to monitor their children's behavior and their
friends. Although it is difficult to stop children from being influenced by
viral content, parents have the right to set filters for their children to
navigate the internet and use social media appropriately. It is clear that
ensuring children's association can foster good manners in them.
The phrase "different times, different ways" should be held by parents
in raising children in this day and age. In the past, our ancestors raised
children differently, and today, we have to adapt to the changes. It is
undeniable that the role of parents is vital in shaping their children's manners
and language, which will lead them to become successful individuals with good
character.
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