Teaching Kids Good Manners

Teaching children appropriate social behaviors is an important component of child development. Not only do they teach children valuable social skills that will serve them well throughout their life, but they also help them interact and communicate more successfully with other people, which is a huge benefit for the children. However, instructing youngsters in appropriate social behavior can be difficult at times. The following are some suggestions that can assist you in guiding your child toward acquiring good manners:

  1. Set a good example for your children to follow. Since children learn from watching others, you should make sure that you are following proper etiquette yourself. This involves using phrases such as “please” and “thank you,” holding doors open for other people, and speaking in a manner that is courteous.

  2. Make it a habit: Proper etiquette should be instilled in people and often put into action. You should make good manners a part of your everyday routine by doing things like saying “please” and “thank you” while you eat and using courteous language when you answer the phone.

  3. Instruct children in certain manners Children are more likely to recall particular manners if they are instructed in them within a particular setting. For instance, you should instruct your child on the proper way to say “please” and “thank you” when they are given anything or given a present.

  4. Provide your child with positive reinforcement: Whenever you see your youngster exhibiting polite behavior, it is important to provide them with positive reinforcement. A simple “nice work” or a hug can do the trick here.

  5. Have patience: It takes time to teach youngsters proper manners, so have patience with your child and don’t become disappointed if they don’t pick up on the lessons right away.

  6. Provide them with opportunities to practice: Provide opportunities for your child to practice excellent manners in real-life settings, such as by having them make a phone call, write a thank-you note, or introduce themselves to someone who is not familiar with them.

If you make these suggestions a part of your daily routine, you will be able to assist your child in the development of positive social skills as well as manners that will serve them well throughout their entire life. It is essential to keep in mind that children pick up manners and etiquette by watching their parents, thus it is imperative that you set a good example for your children and instill good manners in your home.

I find the most challening part of this advice is being a good example to your kids. At times it is easy to forget to say please and/or thank you to your kids, but don’t forget!