Etiquette
Manners for Children “Peas and Tank-oo” by Sue Ann Truitt Etiquette Consultant
Good manners open doors into the homes of friends, the best schools, better professions as well as a more comfortable feeling in a myriad of situations. Teaching manners is the responsibility of the parents and must begin at an early age. As soon as a child utters MaMa and DaDa, it is time to begin with the “Please and Thank You”. Children will learn from what you do. Saying “Please and Thank You” to them at the appropriate times will soon become a part of their vocabulary. This, of course, is just the beginning of the learning process. Manners must be constant and consistent for children of all ages to have it become a foundation for the rest of their life. There will be many issues like pushing, hitting and yelling that will have to be dealt with in the future. Starting early with “Please and Thank You” is a building block for a well mannered child. As children grow older, they will continue to follow by example. There are certain rules that all children should follow: Rule 1 Teach children to clean up after themselves wherever they go. If children leave a mess, remind them that they need to clean up before the next activity can begin, and stick to it.
characteristics, type of dress, etc. should not be tolerated. Teaching tact and kindness toward others is mandatory at every age. Rule 5 Good telephone manners should be taught and practiced before being allowed to actually answer the phone. When making a call, instruct children to identify themselves first, and then ask if they may speak to the person. Speaking clearly and distinctly makes a more pleasant conversation. Rule 6 When a gift is received, teach children to sincerely thank the person who gave the gift. Another gift should not be opened until appropriate appreciation has been shown. Sending a hand written thank you note is always appreciated. In this day of easy emails, learning to write a proper thank you note is a valuable lesson to be used throughout life. Beginning with a toddler and continuing as long as parents can claim to be an influence, they should be teaching good manners. It is a gift the child will use for life. Parents – approach this responsibility with all the seriousness of a full time job!
Rule 2 The fine art of conversation can begin quite early. Start by teaching children not to interrupt unless there is an emergency. If someone’s attention is needed immediately, saying “Excuse me” is the polite way to enter a conversation. Rule 3 Dinner time at home is an ideal situation for practicing and displaying good manners. While many parents encourage their children to talk at the table, it is improper and very bad manners to dominate the conversation. Sitting up straight, keeping hands to themselves, eating with forks held like pencils and keeping their mouths closed while chewing will reap great dividends. The pay off occurs when the opportunity arises to have dinner at someone’s home or at a very special restaurant. Rule 4 Children must be taught that being caddy is rude and impolite. Comments about a person’s physical
MARCH 2013 | TOPS MAGAZINE
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