More manners please? Yes, sir….
Is anyone else wondering what has happened with our manners in recent times?
How did society move from the genteel mannerisms and courtesies of the olden days to the crassness and rudeness of current times?
Every day we seem images of bad language, slang and general disrespect for authority and our elders. And it seems to be getting worse and worse every year. Pictures of drunken brawls, swearing and cursing and rudeness seem to be commonplace.
Being a new mother, I have become extremely conscious of this and will do everything in my power to ensure that my child is brought up to respect authority and her elders, know her basic manners and demonstrate courtesy and politeness in all situations.
Though I think society and environmental influences have a part to play in society’s general disregard for manners, I believe that it is the family unit that has the biggest influence on how a child is brought up. It is the family’s responsibility to teach the children the basics of common courtesy and respect and it s the family’s responsibility to ensure that their children carry these lessons on in their lives.
Without the family unit taking responsibility for their child’s upbringing, society will descend deeper and deeper into the dark ages where violence, rudeness and crassness will rule.
So how do you bring your child up to observe common courtesies and manners?
I am the first to admit that I am definitely not an expert in this – I don’t have a PHD in psychology or childhood education, but I have been a child, I am currently a mother and I have travelled and worked in the business world so here is my two cents worth:
1. Lead by example – if you don’t observe common courtesies and manners, then why should you expect your children to?
2. Be consistent – don’t make concessions and make sure you reinforce the message constantly and daily
3. Educate them in other ways – I am not a huge arts/music fan, but I believe if you open your children’s eyes to other worlds, then this will help in making them a more well rounded and respectful individual. And this doesn’t have to be expensive – your art gallery, or local markets are often free.
4. Limit box time – Don’t have the TV on 24 hrs a day and definitely not in bedrooms. Kids get exposed to too much violence as it as and the TV stops intelligent, engaging conversations.
5. Eat dinner together – make it a rule to have dinner together, around a table and with the TV off! You will be amazed how much you will get to know your children if you do this.
6. Take time out – these days we are constantly bombarded by commercialism. Taking time out and away from the hustle and bustle is great food for the soul.
7. Read to them – books are great for helping them learn and appreciate the English language. It expands their vocabulary and grammar.
8. Spend quality time together regularly – whether this be going to the zoo, picnics or family gatherings, a strong family unit fosters respect and appreciation for values.
So what are your thoughts on this topic? Do you have any tips on how families/parents can foster manners in their children?
