Etiquette Reaches Beyond Just “Being Nice”

As parents, we are charged with such great responsibility.  Not only it is our job to help our children become the best they can be, but it is often our greatest desire to see them reach their full potential. 

Whether we worry over how our toddlers will be treated by the other children, or we agonize over our full-grown children getting good jobs, we are emotionally invested in our children’s success.  Teaching our little ones the importance of etiquette is something that can help them reach their goals, as well as the goals we loving parents have for them.

Take for example the toddler mentioned above.  If your little boy is engaging in inappropriate behavior at the park, play group, or daycare center, then the other children are not going to want to play with him.  Not only does this affect his social standing, but it hurts a parent to see his or her child left out. 

Etiquette lessons are not just about which fork to use, rather they teach children how to interact appropriately in all types of social situations.  This results in better acceptance from the other children, and a more enjoyable experience for your child.

Older children also benefit from a solid foundation in proper etiquette.  The skills taught in these classes can actually help them in their regular school studies.  For example, learning better listening skills will ultimately teach them to pay better attention to their teachers. 

In addition, learning how to treat the teachers respectfully will help them create better relationships with the adults in charge of their learning experience.  In turn, teachers take more of an interest in the child who is kind and polite. 

It is a winning combination that leads to improved studies and learning opportunities.  Of course, a solid education is the foundation for so many other successes in life.

A good understanding of etiquette is something that will continue to benefit your child throughout his life.  From making a good first impression to communicating clearly, the skills taught in etiquette classes pertain as much to the workplace as they do to the schoolyard. 

For example, something as simple as learning the proper way to stand, sit, and walk (called deportment) will help your child convey a sense of self confidence that can help him get a good job and to be more effective at that job.  Learning good personal grooming habits can affect all of his relationships, including who he ultimately marries.

Giving your child a strong background in etiquette is something concrete that you can do as a parent that will undoubtedly help him become a more successful person.  He will be better liked and will be more prepared to graciously handle the things that life has to offer. 

As parents, these are the types of experiences we dream our children will have.  It’s wonderful to know that we have the ability to help guide and direct them toward this outcome.

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If you would like permission to reprint all or part of this article, contact Eunice at eunice@imageflair.com.sg

Children Etiquette - Importance of Teaching Social Skills To Youngsters

We often complain about how things are not the same anymore. The same goes for people and their behaviors, specially the younger lot. If you look around you can’t help but notice how disrespectful the youngsters of today are. They are quite impatient, want things done their way and are not willing to cooperate with others. The adults and parents are seen as either their enemy, or people who simply do not understand them. Filial piety seems like a concept from the pages of history; which has no place in the life of today’s young ones.


We understand the importance of respect and want our children to do so too. But, we often forget that although respect is a great thing, it has to be earned. In order to be respected you have to show respect towards others. This includes your children and not just the adults you interact with. There are some very basic changes you can incorporate in your behavior in order to merit respect from your children, and not demand it.


It all starts with listening to them when they talk to you. Just like you want them to pay attention when you are talking, your child expects the same from you. With today’s busy lifestyles it is often not possible for parents to take out as much time as they would like to for their children. But, make sure you take out the time when your child comes to you for anything.


You cannot trust someone who lies, and when you can’t trust them you don’t respect them. You lose your respect in your children’s eyes if you lie order to cover up for your mistakes. So, it’s always best to tell them the truth only then, can you expect them to do the same. This teaches your child that it’s ok to make mistakes. So, if he makes one he won’t lie to you or hide it from you out of fear.


If you want your child to respect your privacy, you would have to do the same. It does not mean that you don’t keep an eye on what your child is doing, but be sure to be gentle in your ways. The same goes for, if you want him to show respect towards elders in the family or your friends you would have to show respect towards him and his friends.


Teach your child the value of self worth and self respect. If they would not respect themselves they would not be able to respect others. Praise and appreciate your child for positive behavior.


Lastly, it is also important for a child to know that he is loved and cared for. We often assume that our children know that we love them but an occasional gesture of love can go a long way.


Respect is an attitude which helps your children succeed in life. As he learns to respect others, he wins the respect of others. You can teach your child this virtue by giving him the respect he deserves as an individual.