Good manners can get you far in life. That’s why it’s important
that your children learn them from an early age to make sure words such
as ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ become second nature.
However, manners don’t come as easily to some kids as they do to
others, which can be frustrating for parents. That’s why here at
Tutor Doctor we’ve come up with 4 easy ways to teach your child
good manners and all in the comfort of your own home. They will be fluent
in ‘You’re Welcome’ and ‘Excuse Me’ in no time!
1. Teach polite words at an early age
It’s important that you start the process of teaching manners from
an early age. Even a two-year-old can learn to say ‘please’
and ‘thank you.’ They might not understand what the word means
exactly but they will learn the social interaction behind it. They will
know that when someone gives you something you say ‘thank you’
and if you are asking for something, in order to get what you want you
say ‘please.’ It’s also important as parents that you
reinforce these manners back to them. For example, if your child gives
you something they’ve found always make a point of saying ‘thank
you’ to them. The sooner these simple manners are learnt, the more
likely it is that your child will retain and use them in their everyday
vocabulary as they grow older.
2. Expect Respect
A really easy way for children to forget manners is when they are not
practiced or expected on a daily basis. In the same way a teacher expects
a child to respect them and behave in a polite manner towards them, it’s
crucial that you expect the same behaviour at home. If you let rudeness
become acceptable, it’s likely they will continue this way of behaving
in all areas of their lives. Make sure your child knows that you expect
them to behave and speak to you in a certain way and it is likely they
will respond by being kind and polite. If they choose not to it’s
just as important that you reiterate the reason why you are unhappy with
them and tell them what you do expect from them.
3. Set a good example
Children often pick up vocabulary from their parents, which is why it’s
vital that you always set a good example. Interact with others and your
children the way that you would like them to. If your child hears lots
of ‘You’re Welcome’s’ and ‘Excuse me’s’
they will be more inclined to repeat your polite terminology and considerate
behaviour.
4. Praise and reward good manners
Children always respond best to positive reinforcement, so make sure you
are giving plenty of praise when they practice great manners. Letting
them know that their behavior is commendable will not only make your kids
feel happy that they did something good, they are also more likely to
repeat the same polite behaviour.
