4 easy ways to teach your child manners

Good manners can get you far in life. That’s why it’s important that your children learn them from an early age to make sure words such as ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ become second nature. However, manners don’t come as easily to some kids as they do to others, which can be frustrating for parents. That’s why here at Tutor Doctor we’ve come up with 4 easy ways to teach your child good manners and all in the comfort of your own home. They will be fluent in ‘You’re Welcome’ and ‘Excuse Me’ in no time!

1. Teach polite words at an early age
It’s important that you start the process of teaching manners from an early age. Even a two-year-old can learn to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you.’ They might not understand what the word means exactly but they will learn the social interaction behind it. They will know that when someone gives you something you say ‘thank you’ and if you are asking for something, in order to get what you want you say ‘please.’ It’s also important as parents that you reinforce these manners back to them. For example, if your child gives you something they’ve found always make a point of saying ‘thank you’ to them. The sooner these simple manners are learnt, the more likely it is that your child will retain and use them in their everyday vocabulary as they grow older.

2. Expect Respect
A really easy way for children to forget manners is when they are not practiced or expected on a daily basis. In the same way a teacher expects a child to respect them and behave in a polite manner towards them, it’s crucial that you expect the same behaviour at home. If you let rudeness become acceptable, it’s likely they will continue this way of behaving in all areas of their lives. Make sure your child knows that you expect them to behave and speak to you in a certain way and it is likely they will respond by being kind and polite. If they choose not to it’s just as important that you reiterate the reason why you are unhappy with them and tell them what you do expect from them.

3. Set a good example
Children often pick up vocabulary from their parents, which is why it’s vital that you always set a good example. Interact with others and your children the way that you would like them to. If your child hears lots of ‘You’re Welcome’s’ and ‘Excuse me’s’ they will be more inclined to repeat your polite terminology and considerate behaviour.

4. Praise and reward good manners
Children always respond best to positive reinforcement, so make sure you are giving plenty of praise when they practice great manners. Letting them know that their behavior is commendable will not only make your kids feel happy that they did something good, they are also more likely to repeat the same polite behaviour.