How to Help Children to Develop Good Manners

In our society today, the issue of good manners cannot be overemphasised. It's a value that has eluded so many adults and children. Sad to say that this virtue is slightly and steadily slipping away. Today, Parents and Caregivers are busy in pursuit of others things that interest them most than properly raising their kids. Good mannerism needs to be revisited by most adults but since children are the future and the leaders of tomorrow, I'm more concerned about them. 

Good manners are essential for every child's self confidence and success in life. The early years (formative stage) of a child's life is the proper time to start teaching him about the world and the importance of his relationship to the people around him.

They have to be taught the importance of good behaviour.

Manners are about:

° How to speak nicely to others

° How to be generous.

° Helping out in daily tasks.

° Caring for other people and caring for the environment.

° How to respect people and their feelings

° Showing kindness

° Sharing

° Politeness ( learning to say: please, thank you, sorry, excuse me, etc).

Don't forget that the family is where it all starts. Setting a good example is the best way to make these virtues stick with them. Develop a warm and caring relationship with your children, respond to their clues and cues, respect the child, do not criticize him/her in public for nothing, it can be demeaning.

Respect others, children may end up treating others the way they see your treat those in your life/around you.

All these do not happen all of a sudden. It happens over a period of time but you have to remind the child constantly about the manners. Be patience because at times, things may not work out the way you want them to but don't give up. As a parent, remember that you are their number one role model. To play your role as a good model, you must not forget to take very good care of yourself, that's when you function best.

Cheers. 

Always Nekky.