How can we teach children in a way that is both meaningful and memorable?
Addressing the heart behind the manner is key
While manners are typically thought of in terms of social etiquette, they reach far beyond that.
There is no doubt that you have seen how children learn behaviors and develop habits at a young age. They mimic what they see around them.
It’s important to integrate teaching kids good manners into their lifestyle so that it becomes second nature.
WHAT ARE GOOD MANNERS?
In brief, good manners are how we act respectfully towards others.
Being polite, thoughtful, and mindful of our actions is important both in public and in private.
It is important to not just teach children the “do’s and don’ts” of manners, but to also show them the reason behind the behavior.
At some point, we stopped teaching kids more advanced etiquette and only taught them to say “please” and “thank you.”
I’m not saying that’s a bad place to start, just that there’s more to it.
But something is missing.
Many young people today are glued to their devices, don’t know how to properly interact with people, have no regard for their elders, and speak sarcasm as their first language.
We need to train children in common courtesy so that our culture can get back to normal.
Why? Well, that brings me to my next point.
GOOD MANNERS AND RIGHT CONDUCT GO HAND-IN-HAND
The ability to behave appropriately in any given situation is essential for good conduct.
It evaluates whether actions are appropriate and what actions should be carried out.
Good behavior requires treating people with respect and fairness.
Manners are considered respectful and proper interactions that are brought about by small but significant actions.
An example of this would be if you are at a social gathering, it would not be appropriate to be playing video games or be on your phone.
It is important to socialize and interact in a way that makes those around you feel noticed, loved, and appreciated.
Children are not born with an awareness of how their behavior affects others.
It’s our responsibility as parents to teach our children how to have good manners in everyday life, and that those manners are closely connected to how they behave.
The importance of teaching good habits and manners to children is vital in shaping their character. And strong character is what helps them become respected, trustworthy adults.
THE TRUE MEANING OF GOOD MANNERS
Manners are so much more than proper etiquette.
Children should be taught basic good manners, including saying please and thank you, but this should not be the end of their education in manners.
Emily Post said it well:
The way we act around others is based on our awareness of how they might feel in any given situation.
It’s important to be kind and compassionate to those around you, no matter the circumstances. Showing empathy to those in need is also important.
TYPES OF MANNERS
Good manners ultimately come from the heart.
Although there are manners that are practiced everywhere, we will focus on those that are specific to the home and school.
GOOD MANNERS AT HOME
The mannerisms our children exhibit begin in the home.
Many parents have given up their responsibility to teach their children good manners and have instead relied on the school system to do so.
The negative consequences of this action are becoming more and more clear.
Now, more than ever, it is important to teach our children good manners.
Children learn from observing those around them, so it is up to us as parents to provide a good example.
When teaching different ways to have good manners, ensure that your respect and compassion for others comes across clearly.
You can instill good manners in your children by setting a good example yourself.
You could also help your child remember their manners by displaying a quick-reference chart for them to see.
If parents model good manners at home, their children will develop habits that extend to other areas of their lives – which is beneficial to both the children and the parents.
There are numerous benefits to having good manners that go beyond the simple act of being polite.
GOOD MANNERS AT SCHOOL
Good manners are important in school settings, both at home and in public.
Some common etiquette rules that should be practiced on a daily basis are raising your hand before speaking, listening carefully, and being quiet while others work.
One way to teach good manners to students is to provide examples of the appropriate and inappropriate behaviors in different scenarios.
If you turn the text into a role play game, it can be fun. These fun manners activities can help you teach them!
Importance Of Teaching Good Manners To Children
If children learn good manners and social etiquette, they will be able to behave appropriately in different situations. Furthermore, they help:
- Teach the child to behave respectfully and courteously with everyone, including those younger than them.
- Make positive relationships with elders, peers, and juniors, essential for personal, social, and emotional development.
- Enhance confidence and self-esteem by developing a socially appreciated demeanor.
- Boost communication skills that are necessary for academic and professional growth of the child.
- Raise a responsible child who puts moral values in practical use and takes socially accountable decisions that benefit the society.
- Shape a positive personality that keeps a child happy and motivated.
It takes time, patience, and consistent effort to teach your child manners. If you want to do something, following some simple ways and taking the right approach can help you do it easily.
Ways To Teach Good Manners To Children
As a parent, it is important that you guide your child in practicing good manners. This active involvement on your part is necessary in teaching your child how to behave appropriately. Here are some simple steps that can ensure smooth and effective learning.
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