Practicing Proper School Manners

Kids take social cues from the people they spend time with. Not surprisingly, you might not always like the habits and behaviors they pick up from other students at school. But with a little coaching, you can encourage your child to use good manners that make a positive impression on her peers and teachers. Who knows – she might even become a role model and set the trend for other students.Respect Every person deserves respect, and the manner in which you treat others will show your child the importance of respect. So many adults take people for granted without realizing it. When you take the time to thank the teenager at the fast food register or the clerk at the dry cleaner’s, you show your child how much you respect others. Teach your child to say “thank you,” “please,” and “excuse me” when appropriate. Eye ContactWhen you look someone in the eye, it tells that person you are paying attention, are interested in what they are saying, and respect them. Practice this skill with your child as they mature. Keep in mind young children generally do not make eye contact as readily as older children simply because they are busy exploring their own world. Table MannersLunchrooms can be giant rooms of chaos if children do not have the right table manners. Teach your child to hold silverware appropriately, sit still, eat without placing elbows on the table, speak softly, and follow the lunchroom rules. When waiting in line, practice waiting patiently without accidentally knocking against other people.SmilingWant to brighten someone’s day? Smile at them! It is surprising how many people walk around with their heads turned away from others, or focus on their smartphones rather than people. Show your child the remarkable change you can make in others when you take the time to smile and say hello as you walk around the block, or to shoppers as you weave through aisles in the grocery store. Smiles are contagious and those you smile at may share your smile with others.SharingOutside play is generally rambunctious, but it can still be polite. When playing outside, explain how you must wait your turn at a slide if others are in front of you, and you cannot stay on the swing the entire time you are outside if other students are waiting to use the swing. Set limits at home to help your child internalize approximately how long 5 minutes lasts, so she can be aware of time limits on swings and other outside play equipment.  Learning to be polite takes time. Make sure your child has a good understanding of rules at home and explain that home rules and rules at her school may be different. The Diocese of Orlando’s blog page has plenty of helpful hints for parents and students to excel in school both academically and socially. Contact the Diocese at 407-246-4800 to learn about the educational opportunities for your child this year at any of our Catholic schools.