How to teach your kids manners

How to teach your Kids Manners

Teaching manners to a young child may appear daunting, but it does not have to be. You can encourage your child to be polite by teaching them a few key phrases and greetings, teaching them the value of empathy and compassion, and modelling good behaviour so that they have someone to look up to! This article discusses these and other methods for teaching your child the value of good manners and etiquette.

Teach your child to say "goodbye" and "hello."

These phrases are the first steps in interacting politely with others. Make it a habit to greet yourself with "hello" or "good morning" when you wake up each day. As your child gets the hang of it, try to remind them to greet relatives and friends. If they don't say hello, gently remind them. Consider the following: "That's Tom, our next-door neighbour! Do you want to introduce yourself?"

They can even learn to say "hello" even if they haven't learned to speak! Try teaching your child how to say hello and goodbye with a wave.

Remind them to use the word "please" when requesting something.

It wouldn't be a manners article without the phrase "please." It's the perfect way to ask a question or request a favour in a gentle, polite manner. When your child asks for something, whether it's a cookie or assistance with their homework, instruct them to include the word "please" somewhere in their request. Encourage them to remember by reminding them to say it before finishing the task.

For example, if your child requests assistance retrieving a board game from the top shelf of the closet without first saying please, respond with something like, "I can, but only if you say please!"

Make sure they understand the significance of "thank you."

Gratitude is an important aspect of good manners. Teach your child when to say "thank you," such as after someone has assisted them, answered a question, or given them a gift. If you notice your child has forgotten to say thank you, gently remind them. For example, if a friend gives your child a drawing and they take it without saying thank you, say something like, "Sarah drew that just for you!" "What do we say when we receive a gift?"

Experiment with saying "thank you" by wrapping objects around the house as if they were gifts. Exchange these 'gifts' with your child, taking turns unwrapping and saying "thank you."

Encourage them to eat quietly and without making a mess.

It is quite common for children to play with their food. If given the opportunity, who wouldn't want to throw mashed potatoes? Despite the temptation, there are numerous strategies you can use to teach your child to be polite at the dinner table. To begin, try not to react negatively when your child makes a big mess. If they're throwing food, they might just want your attention. Instead of laughing or getting angry, simply ask them to stop. If they continue to make a shambles, inform them that mealtime is over. Setting firm but gentle boundaries can assist your child in understanding the consequences of their actions.

Teach them how to make eye contact during a conversation.

Looking someone in the eyes is essential for having a meaningful conversation! It can be difficult for anyone, child or adult, so please be patient if this step takes a little longer. To practise, have your child look your family members in the eyes to determine their eye colour. This can help them feel more at ease in conversation by making it feel more like a game!