How to Teach a Little Girl Modesty

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:TeachGirlModesty
Post By :
Anonymous
Rate:
Vote

How to Teach a Little Girl Modesty

Introduction

Modesty is a very important principle in Judaism, and Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneersohn, head of the Lubavitch movement, recommended that every Jewish girl start learning the basics of modesty at the age of three. Modesty does not mean simply covering up. It includes thought, speech and action. The concept can most easily be reinforced by example if the child is surrounded by modest images and influences.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Steps

1

Step One

Explain to your daughter that she is old enough to dress properly. Skirts should reach below the knee, her legs should be covered and she should wear long sleeves. Point out what you are wearing as a positive example.
2

Step Two

Show your daughter pictures of princesses who are modestly dressed, and tell her that it is a royal trait to be dressed properly. Also show her pictures of Jewish role models, such as Rebbetzins, who are attractively and modestly dressed.
3

Step Three

Buy your daughter pretty clothes. Allow her to help make the selections, and teach her to inspect an outfit to ensure it is modest.
4

Step Four

Read her books and stories which reinforce modesty as a virtue. Stories of women from the Bible, such as Ruth and Esther, are good examples.
5

Step Five

Teach your daughter by example. If she sees that you wear long socks on a hot day, she is less likely to complain that she has to cover her legs as well.
6

Step Six

Send your daughter to a school where the teachers dress modestly, and there is a dress code for the students.
7

Step Seven

Give your daughter positive reinforcement as she gradually gains more sensitivity about modesty.

Tips & Warnings

  • Make modesty appealing by dressing attractively yourself in modest clothes and choosing pretty outfits for her.
  • Introduce the concept of modesty gradually, even before the age of three, so the sudden change of clothing style is not a shock.
  • Don't allow inappropriate reading material or films into the home. Check magazines for suggestive pictures and strictly limit Internet access.
Tools: |