"Childrens Good Manners" Tis The Season How To Say Thank You

It's almost Christmas and there will be lots of family visits and many presents will be given. This is a great time to teach your children about the importance of being polite and letting people know you are grateful. Children do not automatically have manners installed in them, they have to be taught this behavior and then manners need to be reinforced. I think most parents want their children to have good manners, but they just don't quite know how to go about passing them on to their children. One of the most important things children need to understand is that the best presents are kindness and consideration. Some of the best presents come from the heart, not in a package. Here are some ways to start with when teaching your children manners.

1. Always say "please" and "thank you." The best way for your children learn is by example. If you say please and thank you, your children will follow.



2. Greet visitors by looking up at their face and saying "Hello". Tell your children to always try to figure out what color a persons eyes are. This will ensure that they always make eye contact.



3. At the table, speak with an " inside voice. Always use a napkin and silverware when eating and ask to be excused before you leave the table.



4. Have your children help clean up after a family gathering. Clean up toys that were played with or clean dishes off the table after eating.



5. Help pick out present for family and friends. Teach them to take some time to think about what that person would really enjoy getting for a present.



6. When shopping, it is always nice to smile at a busy salesperson. You never know when you might make their day.



7. When you receive a gift, write a thank you note. If your child does not write yet, it's still great to have them color a picture or scribble a note.

Manners are not just something you do when we have holidays, but they must be practiced all year long. It is best to start young, but it is never to late to start teaching good manners. Your children might not catch on at first, but soon it will become a good habit. Be consistant and you will see results!