Hodor, hodor, hodor. Holding the door for someone is such a simple yet powerful thing. It’s spontaneous. It’s quick. It’s free. And it just might make a stranger’s day. Adding “holding the door” to your child’s list of good deeds is simple and fun.

How to teach your child to hold the door for others. 5 easy parenting tips.

1. Set an example.

Setting an example is the first step to teaching your child to do anything. Children love to copy whatever mom and dad do. Setting an example is the best way to teach your child to hold the door for others because it’s painless and stress-free. When you’re out and about with your children, make it a point to keep the door open for strangers. While you have the door, say, “Look, let’s hold the door for this nice lady.”

2. Point out what to look for.

The most obvious opportunity to hold the door for someone is when they have their hands complete or if they are disabled. If you see a good candidate, point them to your child and say, “See that man there. I bet he could use our help holding the door.” Once your child recognizes when people need the door held for them, she will jump at the chance to help.

3. Let your child help.

Before you hold the door for someone, give your child the opportunity to help. A simple “Would you like to help this lady by holding the door?” should be all you need to say.

4. Practice at home.

When you come home from the grocery store with your hands full of bags, take this opportunity to give your child some practice. Say, “Could you help Mommy by holding the door for me? These groceries are pretty heavy.” You can also have your child show other family members what she’s learned. Ask your child if she wants to show grandma how to hold the door. Children love to show off new skills.

5. Keep track of doors held.

Turn this good deed into a game. Add "hold the door for others" to your family's mobile chore chart app and let your child mark it off with each accomplishment. Your kid can earn a fabulous prize from the family’s universal gift list from Wishfinity that you probably would have bought anyway. You've created a polite little angel. Above all, have fun!