Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Well-Mannered Munchkins?

I saw this article on Yahoo, and took it as a direct parenting challenge.  As I sat pondering it, I realized that, obviously, the adult needs to know basics of etiquette before ever being able to teach their child, and how many adults do you know who are able to live by these rules all the time?  I think we all know several who we wish would read this list.  (You could forward it to them as a not-so-subtle hint!)  I'd like to think I do a fairly good job, but I'm sure there are those out there who think I could use a brush up on a few from time to time, too. 

And then there's my kids.  Ages 4, 2 and 2 months.  Yeah.  I guess we've got some work to do if they will be able to live up to most or all of these by age 9.  I'm already sick of hearing myself talk just to get them through the day-to-day without any serious bodily harm.  It's times like these that I pull up my boot straps, put in my earplugs, and get to the hard work of parenting.

So my questions to you fellow parents out there: How many of these manners are you teaching your child(ren)?  Which do you find the most difficult to instill in them?  Do you have any tips or techniques for the rest of us?  Do you even agree with all of these?  I, for one, do not agree with #6, but maybe that's just me...?

Read on, and post your opinions.  I'd love to hear them!

25 Manners Every Kid Should Know By Age 9

Manner #1When 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.

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