6 Essential Manners for Children

What do you feel when you see a child without manners? I’d rather see a colicky crying baby anytime! Manners are just as essential for children from a preschool level as it is for adults. Here are some essential manners every child should develop. Children who lack manners are often ostracized and the parents of that child are often talked about. So, take some time out and teach your preschool child the manners he will need for the rest of his life to be a happy, healthy and well-adjusted child.

#1. The word ‘please’ is a short word that does wonders. It indicated humility and acknowledges the basic fact that we are all interdependent on one another. The words ‘thank you’ expresses appreciation and always tells the other person their value in your life. The words ‘excuse me’ show the person’s knowledge of not having the right to put themselves before others. If you use these words enough around your child during his or her foundation years, they will automatically use them too.

#2. Sharing. This is a difficult one with toddlers are everything of they own is theirs and no one is allowed to touch it. Be patient and persistent and ensure your child learns to share. This will make him less selfish later in life. It helps them to learn empathy, when they see people who don’t have something.

#3. Using the phrase ‘no thank you’. Instead of saying ‘yuk’ or ‘ewww’ or ‘gross’ when served something they don’t like, make it a habit for your child to use the phrase ‘no, thank you’.
#4. When your children are visiting someone’s house, their hands should be off things that are on shelves, and off people’s bags and personal belongings. I have seen toddlers who will open any bag they will see with their mums finding it very cute. It is not. Teach them to keep their hands off what is not theirs.

#5. Asking permission. By teaching your children to ask for permission before they raid the candy jar, play with the neighborhood kids or get their paint set out, you are building a good foundation that will carry on well into their teens. This is a very good thing. Asking permission simply acknowledges authority and respect for that authority.

#6. Teach your children to give sincere compliments to friends and family and honoring them in this way. We see many adults who don’t like to give compliments, only receive them. Think of how happy it makes you when you receive a compliment, is it not fair to make someone feel just as good?

Happy Parenting!