Civility by Diana Olson:Good Manners Tips For Children

Manners are not “snobbish”, they are basic life skills of kindness and consideration of others. They are a result of traditions handed down from ancient times. If a child is taught these principles from an early age, they will feel more confident and will be able to make others more comfortable. This confidence carries over to many areas of life, emotionally, socially and academically. These rules will be the same as when they are an adult, and this knowledge will last a lifetime. I have found that in the Petite Etiquette classes that I teach, the children appreciate this information. They feel that one of the most important benefits of learning good manners is that they will be well-liked and will have more friends. This seems to be important to a child. Children who feel an increase in self-esteem (well-being), will not have to worry about themselves and will be able to concentrate on others.

These are a few Manners Tips:

Thank You Notes: Write these notes within one week. If the child is too young to write the note, a parent can ask them what they like about the present. The parent can write the note and the child can scribble his name.

Chewing Gum: Chew gum only in private. Save the wrapper to put the gum in before throwing away.

R.S.V.P.: Means “Respondez Sil’Vous Plait” or please respond to this invitation quickly. Always the first invitation received has the priority.

Borrowed Items: Return borrowed items on time and in good condition. If broken, they need to be replaced. Respect all property, yours and others.

Party Kindness: Invite the least popular classmate to your party. It could make a positive lifetime memory for that child. If the invitation is for boys or girls only, if half of the boys or girls are invited, it is kind to invite all of the boys or girls.

Door Etiquette: Open and close doors quietly. Closed doors are a signal to knock.

Furniture Etiquette: Feet belong on the floor, not shoes on the furniture.

Dining Manners: Eat small amounts of food at a time. Swallow food before talking. Elbows are only allowed on the table when there is no food.

Public Grooming: Comb hair in private.

Introductions: Rise when an adult or newcomer comes into the room. Remain standing until he/she leaves or asks you to be seated.

Kind and considerate children create healthy societies.

© Diana Olson, 2007

For classes, consultations, or seminars, contact Diana at: diana@dianaolson.com Web site: www.dianaolson.com