You’ve got a zillion things you’re trying to teach your kids, like this week’s spelling words and that gummy worms are not an acceptable breakfast food.
And here I am, adding more to your list!
But this is truly important– you are setting your children up for success and a happier path through life when you teach them to use good manners.
Social graces are becoming increasingly rare in our tech-centered, fast-paced culture. Experienced executives find that good “people skills” are scarce in the corporate world when working with younger co-workers.
Recently, a human resources manager told me many of the college graduates he’s been interviewing lack what he called “social savvy.” He said, “They just don’t seem to know how to create rapport.”
By teaching social graces to your children, you’re paving the way for their personal and career success.
The elementary years are the time to build this foundation.
Later in middle and high school, you can help your children layer on more advanced social skills (like building strong friendships, developing leadership abilities, practicing netiquette, and navigating more complex social situations).
Before 5th Grade Good Manners Checklist:
These skills create a strong foundation of good manners, kindness, and consideration for others.
___Basics of handshaking and how to introduce himself
___Good eye contact and posture
___Showing respect for adults and using “yes and no” not “yeah and nah” (plus if it’s your family tradition, using “ma’am and sir”)
___How to make basic polite conversation when meeting someone (also known as small talk)
___Basic Table Manners
___Self-control (most of the time)- do not interrupt, allow others to go first, take turns
___Power Words: Please, Thank You, You’re Welcome, and Excuse Me
___The Golden Rule: Treat others as you would like to be treated.
I have good news. You can teach your family these important good manners in a stress-free and fun way.
I’m here to help.
Enter your email below to join my VIP list. I share my very best manners teaching tips, plus you’ll get simple lessons to use to teach your family good manners at home. As a bonus, I’ll send you The Busy Moms Guide to Raising Confident, Kind, and Considerate Kids.
I love this site. I think many children have lost their manners along the way. Nice meeting you on Building a Framework FB group as well.
Thank you for your kind words, Ipuna! I’ll “look” for your in our Framework group.