Children & Manners

Are kids ruder today?

Compared to 20 years ago – probably yes!
We live in a much more casual society and standards have changed.
People have become confused about manners, but the basics are still the basics.
Manners are the basis for any relationship: they demonstrate respect.
They are the cornerstone of all interactions.
We cannot bond with others without good manners and respect.

Are parents rude or the children?

Who is the culprit? Both are at fault.
Heroes in the media rarely have good manners.
Reality TV often shows people at their worst.
Even in the nicest Disney movies, rudeness is often appalling.
People with disgusting habits are found to be funny.

Why teach your child manners?

There are real benefits to giving kids the basics: they know what is expected of them in a social or school setting.
They know what they are doing and they know they are doing it right, which gives them a very real sense of accomplishment.
They will be less anxious.
That means the parent will also be less anxious.
Shy children really benefit: they learn an automatic response and don’t have to think twice.

How to teach your child manners.

Keep it short
Make it fun
Don’t belabour a point
Don’t criticize
Don’t nag