How to teach a child manners

A few decades ago, one of the most important family responsibilities was to make sure that the children were taught to behave well and to always demonstrate good manners, especially when out in public. As time has passed, more and more parents have been forced to hold at least one, if not two or more jobs each to make ends meet or to enjoy luxuries that they feel they must have in order to feel successful. As a result, children tend to miss out on good quality care and training needed for proper behavior, development, and conduct.

The first and most important way to teach children good manners is by being a good example. Children learn, at a very young age, to imitate those around them. They will say and do what they see and hear. Although there are exceptions in which medical and physical factors can cause certain behaviors, most normal children will behave according to their environments. If a child lives in an environment where everyone is always busy and on the run, the child may become nervous, insecure, and irresponsible. Lack of training causes a child to behave in a manner that is not very favorable.

It is important to remember that a childs mind does not know what they haven't experienced and the consequences that go along with the poor manners. A parent or caregiver must be aware of a childs development and be willing to put out the effort of staying ahead of things. They must be alert and watchful and ready to instruct and correct a child before an unpleasant reaction is performed by him or her. Many times parents do not have much time to spend with their children, at least not the time they would like to have, but whatever time there is it should be used to the best of their ability. Thirty minutes of quality time can make all the difference in the world in the life of a young one. Quality time in which the child gets undivided attention from the parent or grandparent, or whoever the caregive may be is all too important and should be number one priority in every family.

All children love attention and all children should get at least a few minutes every day in which he or she gets all the attention. Whether it is to read a book, play a game, or just have a meal together and conversation is carried on between child and parent, the time together should be uninterrupted. Children tend to be more relaxed even if they only get a few minutes a day of undivided attention. Make it a consistent conscious effort to spend as much time as possible with your child and make it good quality time. A calm, peaceful environment will help promote good healthy manners in children.

There are other methods of teaching children good manners. TV shows, videos, and many books also teach different ways to encourage good manners. However, a child needs to be praised and encouraged frequently for good behavior. Rewards are also good for children when they demonstrate good manners. Rewards do not have to be expensive or elaborate. Children just love to receive gifts of all sorts and sizes. They love to be praised and rewarded. They need to know that good manners are important.

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