This weekend my lil family of 3 ventured out to a bit of a shindig at a close friends house. While we were there we met a few people that we didn't know. Jeremy and I both found it very interesting that none of these people made an effort to introduce themselves to us. I commented that I'm noticing that, more and more wherever I go. It seems that basic manners are either no longer taught, no longer expected or just not done anymore. Well, if you know me at all or have ever been in my classroom, you would know that I have extremely high expectations for people-grown ups AND children included. During this convo that the hubs and I were having, we talked about the list of 25 manners I had found when I was pregnant in a parent's magazine and thought it was perfect! We have agreed that we will be teaching Piper and our other children that we may have these simple manners and will expect them to use them, ALL THE TIME. No matter what age. I think this list is amazing and is a great reminder for all people, ages 10-100.
Here they are:
1. When asking for something, say "Please".
2. When receiving something, say "Thank You".
3. Do not interrupt two people when they are talking, unless it is an emergency.
4. If you do need to interrupt them, always say "Excuse me".
5. If you're not sure about something, ask permission first.
6. Do not comment on someone's physical features, unless, of course it's to compliment them.
7. Keep negative comments to yourself. The world doesn't care about what you dislike.
8. When someone asks you how you are, tell them and ask them how they are.
9. When you go to a friends house, remember to thank the parents and tell them what a nice time you had.
10. Knock on closed doors and wait for a response before entering.
11. When calling someone, introduce yourself first and then ask to speak with the person you are calling.
12. Be appreciative and say "thank you" for any and every gift you receive.
13. Never use foul language in front of adults. Adults already know them and find them boring and unpleasant.
14. Don't call people mean names.
15. Don't make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak and ganging up on someone is just cruel.
16. When you are at a performance or assembly you find boring, sit through it quietly and politely and act interested. The performers are doing their very best and already nervous to be in front of you!
17. If you bump into someone, say "Excuse me".
18. Cover your mouth when you bump or sneeze. Don't pick your nose in public. EW!
19. As you walk through a door, look to see if there is someone in front of you or behind you that you can hold the door for.
20. If you come across a neighbor, teacher, or parent working on something ask if you can help. If they say yes, do it! You may learn something from them!
21. When an adult asks you to do something, do it without grumbling and keep the smile on your face.
22. When someone helps you, say "Thank you". They will most likely be willing to help you again sometime.
23. Use eating utensils properly, if you're unsure how to use something, ask for help.
24. Keep a napkin on your lap. Place it on the table when you are completely done eating. If you have to leave the table for any reason, place the napkin on your seat.
25. Don't reach across people for something. Ask them to pass it to you.
Some more that I will add especially if our next one is a boy...
_When a lady that you don't know enters a room, stand up and introduce yourself.
_If you are sitting in a room, crowded bus, church, etc. and you notice a woman standing, offer her your seat.
_Hold the door open for people, especially people who look like their hands are full or need help.
_Call friends' parents Mr. and Mrs. with their last names. Never use first names when speaking to them.
We are on a mission and have accepted the challenge of raising children who will make the world a better place, even if it is only by using basic manners everywhere they go. I know it makes me smile and feel good when someone uses their manners with me!
At this point in time, we also refuse to let our children have a cell phone until they hit middle school. Yes, this may change-most likely will since technology is just crazy nowadays- BUT I find it ridiculous that kids from ages 12-21 can no longer hold a conversation since all they do is text. So sad!
