25 Manners Kids Should Know
#1: When asking for something, say "Please."
#2: When receiving something, say "Thank you."
#3: Do not interrupt grown-ups who are speaking with each other unless there is an emergency. They will notice you and respond when they are finished talking.
#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.
#5: When you have any doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you from many hours of grief later.
#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.
#7: Do not comment on other people's physical characteristics unless, of course, it's to compliment them, which is always welcome.
#8: When people ask you how you are, tell them and then ask them how they are.
#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.
#10: Knock on closed doors -- and wait to see if there's a response -- before entering.
#11: When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.
#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.
#13: Never use foul language in front of adults. Grown-ups already know all those words, and they find them boring and unpleasant.
#14: Don't call people mean names.
#15: Do not make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak, and ganging up on someone else is cruel.
#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.
#17: If you bump into somebody, immediately say "Excuse me."
#18: Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and don't pick your nose in public.
#19: As you walk through a door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else.
#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.
#21: When an adult asks you for a favor, do it without grumbling and with a smile.
#22: When someone helps you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you again. This is especially true with teachers!
#23: Use eating utensils properly. If you are unsure how to do so, ask your parents to teach you or watch what adults do.
#24: Keep a napkin on your lap; use it to wipe your mouth when necessary.
#25: Don't reach for things at the table; ask to have them passed.
(I saw this on Pinterest. I don't know who to credit with this, so if you know, let me know and I will give props to the awesome person who wrote it.)
As a Nonny, I don't have many rules. When they are at my house, I don't care if they eat too many snacks or go to bed a little late, or make a mess in the playroom. But, manners are a must. Manners seem to be a thing of the past...even here in the South......shudder!!:)
How do you feel about children and manners?
Our little *A*....just because I have to have a picture!
