It's Never Too Soon to Teach Kids Proper Manners and Etiquette

Children today are generally less respectful and demonstrate less good manners than children of previous generations. Teaching a child manners is important so that kids learn respect and tolerance in a diverse world, while at the same time able to succeed socially in any situation. Here are tips for getting started.

Good manners is something that should be emphasized by parents and child care providers alike, and it's never too soon to start. Teaching kids to give thanks by writing thank you notes is a gesture that should be taught, and kids should understand that expressing gratitude is a part of opening presents.

Holiday occasions, weddings, anniversary and adult celebrations, and other social events often call for well-behaved, polite and proper-acting children. But parents often in err in somehow assuming their kids will just "know" the right way to act and that they will follow appropriate table manners. Wrong! Teach your kids about etiquette no-no's and table expectations so that they'll make you proud at the next big outing. Here are basics to cover with your youngsters.

Expecting another baby? Or, does your child play too roughly with playmates or even the family pet? Sounds like some "gentleness training" is in order.