Manners You Should Teach Your Kids!

"Good manners are just a way of showing other people that we have respect for them."


I know that a lot of my things have come from other sources lately, but I want to share them with you all so badly so here's another 'copy & paste'! I may have random notes in red :)


Manner #1
When asking for something, say "Please." If they don't say it, they don't deserve what they're asking for. Trust me, I've refused to give younger cousins things if they can't say please. You might not teach them a life long lesson, but you'll show their parents the importance of saying please.
Manner #2
When receiving something, say "Thank you."
Manner #3
Do not interrupt grown-ups who are speaking with each other unless there is an emergency. They will notice you and respond when they are finished talking. This is definitely true but there's a fine line...if the child is young enough, then you shouldn't continue your conversation for too long. Definitely let them learn to wait, but allow them to say "excuse me" in between a conversation.
Manner #4
If you do need to get somebody's attention right away, the phrase "excuse me" is the most polite way for you to enter the conversation. I guess that says it right here :p
Manner #5
When you have any doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you from many hours of grief later. Yeah but I still think kids should learn to explore and take risks. They're supposed to do crazy things so we can learn on their own. Once they cross certain lines, we should step in.
Manner #6 The world is not interested in what you dislike. Keep negative opinions to yourself, or between you and your friends, and out of earshot of adults. I wouldn't teach my child to keep it between his friends because then they could easily start talking about other kids.
Manner #7 Do not comment on other people's physical characteristics unless, of course, it's to compliment them, which is always welcome.
Manner #8 When people ask you how you are, tell them and then ask them how they are. I totally agree. I understand some kids are shy but I mean come on! At least say hi!
Manner #9
When you have spent time at your friend's house, remember to thank his or her parents for having you over and for the good time you had.
Manner #10 Knock on closed doors -- and wait to see if there's a response -- before entering.
Manner #11 When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.
Manner #12 Be appreciative and say "thank you" for any gift you receive. In the age of e-mail, a handwritten thank-you note can have a powerful effect. Agreed. Even if I love to save paper, I think it means a lot more if a thank you note is handwritten.
Manner #13 Never use foul language in front of adults. Grown-ups already know all those words, and they find them boring and unpleasant. Ummm...or just don't use foul language at all. How young are the kids we're talking about right now?? On a side note, I saw this Dad cursing at his 4 year old son at work the other day and it broke my heart. Please don't do that.
Manner #14
Don't call people mean names.
Manner #15 Do not make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak, and ganging up on someone else is cruel.
Manner #16 Even if a play or an assembly is boring, sit through it quietly and pretend that you are interested. The performers and presenters are doing their best.
Manner #17 If you bump into somebody, immediately say "Excuse me."
Manner #18 Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and don't pick your nose in public.
Manner #19
As you walk through a door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else.
Manner #20 If you come across a parent, a teacher, or a neighbor working on something, ask if you can help. If they say "yes," do so -- you may learn something new.
Manner #21 When an adult asks you for a favor, do it without grumbling and with a smile. And do your chores without having to be reminded. If it's the same thing every week, you can't forget about it!
Manner #22 When someone helps you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you again. This is especially true with teachers! You can never say "thank you," "sorry," or "please" enough...use them freely!
Manner #23 Use eating utensils properly. If you are unsure how to do so, ask your parents to teach you or watch what adults do.
Manner #24
Keep a napkin on your lap; use it to wipe your mouth when necessary.
Manner #25
Don't reach for things at the table; ask to have them passed. Does it bother you when people have their elbows on the table? It definitely doesn't bother me...I think it's the weirdest manner ever!

It's very basic, but you probably know so many kids that are manner-less...this could help them out :p

So long <3