Literature


Raising a Polite Child in Our Modern World

by Anonymous


A lot has changed in our modern world. It used to be a given that children were taught to say “please” and “thank you.” Bad behavior is everywhere nowadays! Don’t despair; it’s never too late to start.

1. Be a role model at all times. If your child sees you yelling at the store clerk, what do you think he or she will do the next time a difficult situation comes up?

2. Teach them how to act. Playtime is the best time. Use dolls, action figures, or stuffed animals to role play different scenarios. Emphasize positive actions.

3. Meal time together is important. The “lost art” of sitting down to dinner needs to be restored. Studies show that children who eat meals with their families have much better manners than those who are allowed to eat while sitting in from of the television.

4. Enforce polite language. Saying “please” and “thank you” should never be optional.

5. Notice the good, too. Don’t just respond to the bad. If you see your child doing something good, say something! Don’t overly praise, but a sincere, “I love how you sat quietly and patiently until I finished my phone call” goes a long way!