May 14, 2011

25 Manners Every Kid Should Know By Age 9....

Manners are a sensitive awareness of the feelings of others. If you have that awareness, you have good manners, no matter what fork you use...

Being a child today seems much more challenging than when I was a child. Long time ago, it seems as if parents had more free time on their hands not so much today it seems.  Both my parents worked when I was a child, yet they always found the time to teach us right and wrong and to be respectful and mindful of others..

Sometimes kids(adults also) just don't realize it's impolite to interrupt, pick their nose, or loudly observe that the lady walking in front of them has a large behind. And in the hustle and bustle of daily life, busy moms and dads don't always have the time to focus on etiquette. But if you reinforce these 25 must-do manners, you'll raise a polite, kind, respectful, well-liked child.-

Manner #1
When asking for something, say "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.

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.
Manner #5
When you have any doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you from many hours of grief later.

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.

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.

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.  I have noticed this to be very lacking in young kids today...they find it very difficult to say THANK YOU!!

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.  This applies to grown -up also.  So many times I have picked up the phone and the person on the other end assumes I know who they are...NOT ALWAYS!
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.
Manner #13
Never use foul language in front of adults. Grown-ups already know all those words, and they find them boring and unpleasant.  So true...nothing worse than hearing foul language from someone you never expected it from...

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....I have to pay special attention to this one.  My weakness is I am not patient and I get bored easily...

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.  Also another thing I find HORRIBLE is people picking their teeth at the table.  If you have to use a toothpick go to the bathroom.  DISGUSTING!!!

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.

Manner #22
When someone helps you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you again. This is especially true with teachers!  WHY DO SOME FIND SAYING THANK YOU SUCH A DIFFICULT THING!!!?

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.

A man's own manner and character is what most becomes him...Respect for ourselves guides our morals; respect for others guides our manners....

until next time....