Cultivating good manners in Kids

Manners are nothing but behavior in a proper and right way.  Good manners in kids are very important. If our kids misbehave in public or during formal occasions, we parents are the one who are badly embarrassed. To save ourselves from such situations, we need to prepare our kids accordingly.

Manners are taught as soon as our child understands what we are saying. Also, children will need coaching and reminders on manners throughout their childhood. It's best to give positive reinforcement, that is, when your child does something right, let them know. When your child does something wrong, do not be negative about it, but gently tell them how it is best done and why.

These below points can be taught to the kids:

1.    Wait for their turn and not interrupting elders when they are speaking. Gently tell them to wait until someone is done speaking, and then ask their question.

2.    Never call names to others as name calling hurts.

3.    Always greet someone when they come over to your house. You can teach your child to shake hands with adults who come over and say, "Hello" or "hi.

4.    Say, "Please" whenever he or she asks for something and "Thank you" whenever he or she receives something. It shows respect and appreciation. In addition, if they are thanked, then say, "You're welcome".

5.    Do not comment on other people's physical characteristics unless, of course, it's to compliment them, which is always welcome.

6.     Clean up after yourself. Whether at home or at a friend's house, always pick up after yourself. It's their mess, so they need to clean it up. If children leave a mess, then remind them that they need to clean up before the next activity can begin, and stick to it.

7.    When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.

8.    Take compliments courteously. If someone praises your children, teach them to be gracious and say, "thank you" and avoid putting themselves down or pointing out flaws.

9.    Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and don't pick your nose in public.

10. When an adult asks you for a favor, do it without grumbling and with a smile.

11.  When going into buildings, allow elders to go first and open the door for them.

12. When someone helps you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you again. This is especially true with teachers!

13.  When you have any doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you from many hours of grief later.

14.  When people do things differently from your family because of diversity in culture, race, or religion, then teach your child respect the differences.