25 Manners Every Kid Should Know By Age
Nine
Your child's rude 'tude isn't always intentional. Sometimes kids
just don't realize it's impolite to interrupt, pick their nose, or
loudly observe that the lady walking in front of them has a large
behind. And in the hustle and bustle of daily life, busy moms and
dads don't always have the time to focus on etiquette. But if you
reinforce these 25 must-do manners, you'll raise a polite, kind,
well-liked child.
Manner #1 - When asking for
something, say "Please."
Manner #2 - When receiving
something, say "Thank you."
Manner #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.
Manner #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.
Manner #5 - When you have any
doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you
from many hours of grief later.
Manner #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.
Manner #7 - Do not comment on
other people's physical characteristics unless, of course, it's to
compliment them, which is always welcome.
Manner #8 - When people ask you
how you are, tell them and then ask them how they are.
Manner #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.
Manner #10 - Knock on closed doors
-- and wait to see if there's a response -- before entering.
Manner #11 - When you make a phone
call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with
the person you are calling.
Manner #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.
Manner #13 - Never use foul
language in front of adults. Grown-ups already know all those
words, and they find them boring and unpleasant.
Manner #14 - Don't call people
mean names.
Manner #15 - Do not make fun of
anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak, and
ganging up on someone else is cruel.
Manner #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.
Manner #17 - If you bump into
somebody, immediately say "Excuse me."
Manner #18 - Cover your mouth when
you cough or sneeze, and don't pick your nose in public.
Manner #19 - As you walk through a
door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else.
Manner #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.
Manner #21 - When an adult asks
you for a favor, do it without grumbling and with a smile.
Manner #22 - When someone helps
you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you
again. This is especially true with teachers!
Manner #23 - Use eating utensils
properly. If you are unsure how to do so, ask your parents to teach
you or watch what adults do.
Manner #24 - Keep a napkin on your
lap; use it to wipe your mouth when necessary.
Manner #25 - Don't reach for
things at the table; ask to have them passed.
See full article from Parents.com here, by David
Lowry, Ph.D.