I don’t expect my children—or any child, for that matter—to exhibit perfect manners at all times. They have plenty of time to learn the intricacies of etiquette, and truthfully, even many adults aren’t fully versed in every social nicety. I can overlook an elbow on the table or the occasional spoken word while chewing on a french fry. Sure, I’d discourage those behaviors in a formal setting like a restaurant where good manners are the norm, but in the comfort of our home, it’s not as critical.
However, there are essential manners every individual should grasp, and there’s absolutely no reason not to teach these basics to your kids. It isn’t difficult to instill these values (unless you’re among those lacking manners yourself, in which case, it’s time to get it together), and soon, they will become as automatic as breathing. Simple phrases like “please” and “thank you,” holding the door open, assisting someone in need, using quiet voices in serene places, taking turns, or saying “excuse me” after a burp are all foundational manners that even the youngest children can learn.
Yes, this is significant; teaching your kids good manners is a priceless gift that will benefit them throughout their lives. When you compare a well-mannered individual to an ill-mannered one, it’s clear who will have an easier time navigating social interactions. The person with etiquette possesses a distinct advantage. They will feel more comfortable in various social situations and make a much better first impression. Teachers, employers, parents, and friends prefer to engage with someone whose behavior won’t create issues or embarrassment; therefore, those who exhibit good manners are often more likely to be hired, promoted, and trusted. This positive social feedback can, in turn, boost their self-esteem.
Moreover, teaching your children to practice good manners sends them a crucial message. It conveys that manners go beyond mere words; it’s about respect and consideration for the people we interact with. The way we treat others directly influences how they feel, and raising discourteous kids doesn’t benefit anyone—not even the rude children themselves.
We can all agree that the world has enough discourteous individuals. So, how do we mitigate this? It starts with us modeling good manners from the very beginning. From their early days, thank them when they hand you something, whether it’s a toy or a soggy cookie. When dining out or exiting a playdate, exemplify the behavior you wish to see in them. Don’t force them into polite behavior, as that could backfire; however, gentle prompts are helpful. Allow them the opportunity to respond on their own when someone asks them a question—give them that space.
Should we expect our children to exhibit flawless manners? Certainly not; even my oldest is 12, and I still find myself reminding him occasionally. Kids forget—if they didn’t, we wouldn’t need to repeatedly emphasize “don’t leave your socks on the floor.” Adults forget too, which is why stories of rude individuals often go viral. These serve as reminders of the importance of extending common courtesy.
Consistency is key; if we continue to provide good examples and necessary reminders, good manners will become second nature. This will not only benefit them but also everyone they interact with for the rest of their lives. It doesn’t require an enormous effort on our part. So, let’s do everyone a favor and teach our kids how to treat people right.
In conclusion, instilling good manners in children isn’t just about teaching them to say “please” and “thank you.” It’s about fostering respect and kindness that will serve them well throughout their lives. For additional resources on family building options, check out this excellent resource on intrauterine insemination. If you’re interested in alternative options, you might also visit our post about the at-home insemination kit.