Good Manners:
Kids Corner

Aired on Superstation WGN
Saturday, June 18 and October 22, 2005
Show 217

We all know them, ill mannered kids who will just not behave. Who seem to ignore everything their parents tell them. Rudeness is becoming an epidemic. And many sociology experts believe manners are on a decline. No kids are perfect, but we do want little Bobby, Susie and Allie to exhibit some common courtesy. So how do you teach your kids to be well mannered? Start by teaching them in small doses. For example, with table manners. Show your child how to put a napkin on his or her lap by doing it for them. Try adding a one word reminder; napkin is all you need to stay. Stay consistent. Good manners are an all the time, every day kind of thing. Every time your son or daughter comes to the table with a baseball cap on, politely ask them to remove it by saying, "No hats at the table please." Remind your children what you expect. On your way to a friend's house for dinner, explain they should say, "No thank you," if offered something they don't want. And of course, please and thank you are important. If your child says, "Hey pass the beans," you may want to just give them a special look until they realize they've forgotten something really important. Compliment your children when you catch them using good manners. Let them know you're proud of them. Lead by example, be consistent, teach with a smile, and most importantly, don't give up. Politeness and good manners are skills that will serve your children well for a lifetime.