25 Manners Every Kid Should Know
I got this list from a fellow teacher, and I thought it was a great piece to include on my website. Sometimes life is so busy that we forget about the building blocks to social relationships that many kids need to be explicitly taught. If we can work together on these things with your child, we will be doing a great service to them as well as those they interact with.
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 an 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, or course, it's to compliment them, which is always welcome. (And I would add, neither should you negatively comment on what they wear or possess.)
Manner #8
When people ask you how you are, tell them and they ask them how they are.
Manner #9
When you have spent time at your friend's house, remember to thank his/her parents for having you over and for the good time you had.
Manner #10
Know 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
Don't make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others that you are weak, and ganging up on someone else is cruel.
Manner #16
Even of a play or assembly is boring, sit through it quietly and pretend that your are interested. The performers and presenters are doing their best.
Manner #17
If you bump into somebody, immediately say "Excuse me."
Manner #18
Cover you mouth when you cough or sneeze, and don't pick your nose in public.
Manner #19
As you walk through a door, looks to see 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.
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 an 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.