Manners for Children


Manners for children do not come as easy as ABC. It is something that is not to be implemented all of a sudden without the children knowing which is wrong and which is said to be acceptable behaviour. In this case, the best teacher for teaching manners for the children will of course be the parents themselves and the family as a whole.

Firstly, parents should introduce from the very start simple rules that need to be followed. For example, before leaving the toilet, it must be flushed. If you would like to inculcate the habit to your child, make sure it is the parents who should do that at all times. Using a toilet at a relative’s house and having the children leaving it in a mess will of course reflects the parents’ failure to introduce the proper manner.


Manners for children start with the observation of their parents’ behaviour and these children will ultimately follow them consciously or unconsciously. Being a good role model is the word here. Just telling them what is right and what is not, will simply not be enough. Greeting visitors with a simple "Hello" or a handshake (depending on the way or custom the parents prefer), when they come over to your house is another manner that should be introduced. If however, children are among the visitors, an exchange of pleasantries will suffice. Saying "thank you" when your child gets something, "you’re welcome" when the child is thanked and "please" when asking for a favour or help, are other examples of good manners for children. These words, though simple, show respect, gratefulness and politeness from the child.

Other manners that are socially acceptable, that parents need to consider include sharing things among siblings or other children at preschool. Once this has become a habit in them, this manner will help create a good relationship among peers and colleagues when they become working adults later on.

Good manners for children should be of concern to parents if the child starts to be aggressive and anti-social. Being aggressive towards other children such as hitting and biting must not be ignored by parents and only brush it off as child play. If you are in this situation, it is better if you pick up your child and take him out or to another room. Parents need to be calm and patience when handling this. Snatching toys or throwing food during meals can be considered as anti-social. Take time to explain to your child why those behaviours are bad and unacceptable. On top of that, they will hurt the feelings of the others. Children need to be reminded constantly, so if things do not improve, try to foresee the action and take charge before things get out of control.

Good manners learnt at an early age will definitely help the children to assimilate into society with ease. A happy, caring and grateful person will find happiness, not only in the family but also in the community in general.


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