Little ones can learn good manners
BY SHERRY THOMAS
Parents unite! It's called repetition, repetition, repetition.
Once in a while, I get a call from a frantic mother using words such as, "I can't do anything with
them," or, "they won't listen to me," or "their manners are embarrassing. Help!"
Etiquette, life skills, and life lessons begin early. When I receive the above referenced phone call, I have to politely remind the caller that while I can educate children with regard to manners and common courtesies, I can't be there to reinforce them.
An unruly or disrespectful child is a child that is the source of conversation everywhere he/she
goes. But parents, that makes you the source of negative conversation. Let's be clear. This discussion is not about the terrible 2's and tumultuous 3's, but rather about kids and youth who simply have no regard or respect for others.
At a very early age, children can be instructed on "rights" and "wrongs" and socially accepted behaviors. Children can learn how to wobble over to the counter and (with your assistance) place their used flatware into the sink. A child can waddle over to the garbage can to throw out a napkin.
With your assistance, children can learn how to make a bed by just pulling up the covers. Children can comprehend that dirty clothes belong in a hamper, not on the floor.
Make it fun. Children, even the younger ones, can practice greeting a guest at the door by welcoming them inside, offering them something to drink, and serving them snacks. Practice having your child look someone in the eyes to say "thank you" and "please." When at a restaurant, allow your child to politely request something from the server and then follow that up with a thank you. Teach them a handshake early on. It will stay with them a lifetime.
We all remember by doing. Teach your child through example but also teach by having him/her repeat
what you do.
One of my favorite activities with the younger children is to have a burping contest. The burps and
laughter fill the room and this activity turns into a hilariously good time. I then point out that if
everyone burped like that, we wouldn't be able to talk or hear and we'd probably all be kicked out of
the restaurant! They get it. Booger flicking and nose picking? I ask them if they'd like to shake
someone's hand who just picked their nose or sit on the sofa where the booger picker just deposited
the booger gold. They scream "ewwwww" and they get it.
It is much more difficult to correct negative behaviors than it is to reinforce positive ones each
step of the way. It is never too early to teach manners and respect. Parents, it is a reflection of
you and what is and is not deemed acceptable in your home.
Hang in there. You'll delight with your angel baby.
Sherry Thomas is president of The Palm Beach School of Etiquette and Life Skills. Visit the school's website and follow her on Twitter @EtiquetteQueen.
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