While it can be a challenge, teaching our children to have good manners is essential in our world today.

It’s important to understand that good manners go beyond just politeness. They reflect the values and principles of a person, including respect, kindness, and consideration for others. Good manners help our children to develop empathy, emotional intelligence, and social skills, which are crucial for healthy relationships and overall well-being.

As Christians, we are called to be kind and respectful to others, regardless of their age, gender, or social status.

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.

Colossians 3:12-14

Teaching our children good manners is an extension of these virtues.

Take a look at 10 tips to raise kids with manners.

1. Lead by example – Children learn by observing and imitating their parents. Therefore, it’s crucial to model good manners in front of them. Saying “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me” when appropriate, holding doors open, and speaking kindly to others are all ways to set a good example for your children.
2. Teach manners from an early age – It’s never too early to start teaching manners. Simple gestures such as teaching your child to wave goodbye or blowing a kiss can go a long way. Use polite words like “please” and “thank you” when talking to your child, and praise them when they use these words themselves.
3. Practice table manners – The table is a perfect place to teach manners. Teach your child to sit up straight, use utensils correctly, and wait for everyone to be served before eating. Encourage them to ask for food politely, chew with their mouth closed, and say “please pass the salt” instead of reaching across the table.
4. Teach them to greet others – Teach your child to greet others with a smile and a handshake or a hug, depending on the person and situation. Encourage them to use the person’s name when greeting them and to make eye contact.
5. Teach them to apologize – Apologizing is an essential aspect of good manners. Teach your child to apologize when they have done something wrong, and to ask for forgiveness. Encourage them to make things right, where possible, and to learn from their mistakes.
6. Teach them to share – Sharing is an essential aspect of good manners, especially in social situations. Encourage your child to share toys, books, and games with others, and to take turns when playing.
7. Encourage them to be patient – Patience is a virtue that goes hand in hand with good manners. Teach your child to wait for their turn, to listen to others, and to be patient when things don’t go as planned.
8. Teach them to be respectful – Respect is a fundamental aspect of good manners. Teach your child to be respectful towards others, including their elders, peers, and those with different beliefs and opinions.
9. Encourage them to be helpful – Good manners often involve being helpful to others. Encourage your child to help with chores at home, to offer assistance to those in need, and to be considerate of others’ feelings.
10. Practice gratitude – Gratitude is a key aspect of living out God’s will for our lives, and by cultivating a heart of gratitude, we can experience greater joy, peace, and contentment. Check out our post on 10 strategies for encouraging gratitude in kids!

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