While reading some parenting articles, I read this one article about manners that I knew I had to blog about it. Kids are easy enough to teach manners, it's actually following it up that sucks. Because when they see somebody else doing something really gross but funny they tend to do the same thing...that is when it's crucial to say it is wrong. If they get away with it even just once then they will do it again.
Parents tend to let them get away with it, especially when they do it in public and some people find it hilarious. Make no mistake about it, there are people who find it really funny when a kid burps so loud, well, this still falls under manners right?
Seriously though, at my age, I still tell my dad where am going and how late I will be home and I expect my son to do the same thing...for me that is simple courtesy. And up until now, I remind my son to say thank you (he does say thank you normally but sometimes when busy he seems to forget). Not reminding him to say tabi (please) or salamat (thank you) is like making him feel that it's normal for people to do it for him when what I want him to learn is that when people do things they go out of their way to do it and deserve to be thank for that, no matter who they are, no matter the age.
You just don't say 'please', 'thank you', 'excuse me' to your parents or the elderly but to everybody, even those younger than you. And when I say everybody it means everybody, no matter what the station is life is....respect does not mean only for the rich and the executives. Even those in cheap work clothes like the jeepney drivers, Metro Aides, your household help and everybody you meet.
You just don't say 'please', 'thank you', 'excuse me' to your parents or the elderly but to everybody, even those younger than you. And when I say everybody it means everybody, no matter what the station is life is....respect does not mean only for the rich and the executives. Even those in cheap work clothes like the jeepney drivers, Metro Aides, your household help and everybody you meet.
It's why I always say thank you when paying my fare and one thing I have been wanting to see in other people. I mean it is not my obligation to get your fare and pass it towards the driver so at least I deserve a thank you.. don't you think? And even the driver in cheap work clothes deserves a thank you.
Manner #1
When asking for something, say "Please."
Manner #2
When receiving something, say "Thank you."
Manner #3
Do not interrupt grown-ups who are speaking with each other unless there is an emergency. They will notice you and respond when they are finished talking.
Manner #4
If you do need to get somebody's attention right away, the phrase "excuse me" is the most polite way for you to enter the conversation.
Manner #5
When you have any doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you from many hours of grief later.
Manner #6
The world is not interested in what you dislike. Keep negative opinions to yourself, or between you and your friends, and out of earshot of adults.
Manner #7
Do not comment on other people's physical characteristics unless, of course, it's to compliment them, which is always welcome.
Manner #8
When people ask you how you are, tell them and then ask them how they are.
Manner #9
When you have spent time at your friend's house, remember to thank his or her parents for having you over and for the good time you had.
Manner #10
Knock on closed doors -- and wait to see if there's a response -- before entering.
Manner #11
When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.
Manner #12
Be appreciative and say "thank you" for any gift you receive. In the age of e-mail, a handwritten thank-you note can have a powerful effect.
Manner #13
Never use foul language in front of adults. Grown-ups already know all those words, and they find them boring and unpleasant.
Manner #14
Don't call people mean names.
Manner #15
Do not make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak, and ganging up on someone else is cruel.
Manner #16
Even if a play or an assembly is boring, sit through it quietly and pretend that you are interested. The performers and presenters are doing their best.
Manner #17
If you bump into somebody, immediately say "Excuse me."
Manner #18
Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and don't pick your nose in public.
Manner #19
As you walk through a door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else.
Manner #20
If you come across a parent, a teacher, or a neighbor working on something, ask if you can help. If they say "yes," do so -- you may learn something new.
Manner #21
When an adult asks you for a favor, do it without grumbling and with a smile.
Manner #22
When someone helps you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you again. This is especially true with teachers!
Manner #23
Use eating utensils properly. If you are unsure how to do so, ask your parents to teach you or watch what adults do.
Manner #24
Keep a napkin on your lap; use it to wipe your mouth when necessary.
Manner #25
Don't reach for things at the table; ask to have them passed.
“Children are natural mimics who act like their parents
despite every effort to teach them good manners.”
(Author Unknown)