Teaching manners to children

Many people don't realize how vital it is to at least introduce character traits at an early age. A child may not fully comprehend what manners are, or any other trait for that matter, at the age of 2 but by introducing them to the character traits at that age you are opening them to a world of helping them grow up to become a good citizen.

We use animals because it is something that every child can relate to. Once they understand the character, they are introduced to what the character stands for. In this case, manners. Manners Monkey is more than just a cute face to stick on the wall. This animal stands for something that every person should use in their everyday life.

By teaching children at a young age you are opening them up to continue using this character throughout their entire life. While our character may drop off at an older age, the connection has already been made. In ten years the child may not have Manners Monkey around to say that using words like 'please' or 'thank you' is something that you should always do. Instead, after using our characters in the early years those things will be instilled in the child.

As I work on one of our Manners Monkey Handbooks, I am looking up quotes about manners. Of course, I thought that there would be few to choose from, but I am delightfully surprised to be wrong. Below is one of the best quotes about manners that I've come across. Think about this, remember it, internalize it, and become a positive role model for our youth.

"The hardest job kids face today is learning good manners without seeing any." Fred Astaire

Polite words should be used in everyday conversation. Unfortunately, many people (adults, teenagers, and children) don't think that using kind words means anything. Do you ever notice how trends are set? Whether it's in school, at home, at work, or anywhere else, it always starts with just one person. Do you ever catch yourself repeating something that you heard in a film? Maybe a friend always says a certain phrase. Everyone has fallen 'victim' to copying someone for something, even if you don't want to admit it. So why not start the trend of bringing back polite words?

Here's a list to get you started. Bring these words into the conversation as often as possible. You don't need to make reference to the fact that you're being polite, just start using them. You'd be amazed how quickly others will pick up and begin following your lead.

-- Please
-- Thank You
-- May I?
-- Excuse Me
-- I'm Sorry
-- Pardon Me
-- Shall (instead if 'I will' say, 'I shall')

If you aren't having any trouble with 'please' or 'thank you' type of polite words, but you are having a problem with vulgar language or name calling try to use affection names. For example, darling or doll. I know it seems a little ridiculous but you would be amazed at how much more positive these names can be rather than calling someone an idiot or that terrible 'r' word.