Why is it that manners and polite behaviors seem to no longer be a priority in today’s society? Are good manners really outdated behaviors? Is it no longer “cool” to be polite? Often when I see children and teenagers communicating amongst themselves or with adults, it seems manners are clearly a thing of the past.
Several studies have identified hectic schedules, working parents and our modern lifestyle as the culprits for the prevalence of poor manners. Other research has made it apparent that technology has altered and diminished our social and communicative skills. Whatever the reason, the truth is that every generation seems to be less respectful and less polite than the previous one.
Can we as parents allow this to happen? The answer is no! And, as parents, we need to ensure that our children learn these skills. By age 5, most of our children know that they should say “please”, “thank you” and “excuse me”. Most parents model appropriate table etiquette and common social courtesies. However, learning “the magic words” and chewing with your mouth closed are only the beginning of a long list of life skills that our children need to learn in order to be successful in their lives. This learning is a process and principles like respect, kindness; courtesy and thoughtfulness need to be taught in order for children to become more aware of others and consequently less self-centered. As children develop appropriate social skills, mannered behaviors, and a new respect for their environment (their home, their school, their general surroundings) they also become more confident, more self-assured and consequently feel good about themselves and their abilities.
Some children will learn these social skills on their own at their own pace; some children will easily make friends using their natural conversational skills but many children struggle with one or both of these areas.
As parents we want to offer our children the best chance for success in life. We offer them the best education we can afford; we take them to music classes, sports, dance lessons and tennis clinics. These are all fabulous activities that enhance a child’s life. However, social skills, good manners and etiquette should be added to the list of activities that enhance our children’s lives and consequent futures.
Gold Star Manners offers programs for children from 4 to 17 years old. The sessions are focused on teaching children the keys to success using an age-appropriate curriculum consisting of varied and engaging activities. The younger children enjoy role playing, puppets and crafts while the older children and young adults learn how to deal with difficult situations ranging from bullying to how to act appropriately in a school interview.
The programs offered in structured settings such as Gold Star Manners are only part of the learning experience. Parents are a critical factor in ensuring that their children continue to exercise the skills they learn in the program.
