I came across a great article the other day and wanted to share it
with you. The article talked about the simple rules of etiquette
and manners for children. However, when I looked at the list of
manners, these apply to both adults and children.
Sometimes kids just don’t realize it’s impolite to do certain
things, and because of our busy lives, sometimes moms and dads
don’t have the time to focus a lot of time on etiquette.
So check out these 25 fail safe manners that will have you and your
family getting noticed – for all the right reasons.
Manner #1
When asking for something, say “Please.”
Manner #2
When receiving something, say “Thank you.”
Manner #3
Do not interrupt grown-ups or people 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.
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.
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. Adults already know all
those words, and they find them boring and unpleasant.
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.
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.
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!
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.
So there you go…25 things you can do to be polite, have great
manners, and make people feel good.
Have a great day and I’ll talk to you soon!
Sincerely,
Dr. Justin Trosclair
Source: March 2011 issue of Parents magazine.
