Etiquette for kids

Just because you are kids does not mean that you do not know how to behave. It pays well to behave whether at school or at home. Good kids are always well-rewarded for being helpful and cooperative. What sorts of behavior are not acceptable anywhere whether you are at home or in school? Take a look at these, boys and girls.

1. Shouting or screaming is a no-no anywhere. It reflects bad manners. If you have to say something to someone who is across the room, go to him or her and do not yell at her.

2. Pushing. Those who push others are not better than bullies. Don't be a bully then. Learn to wait for your turn.

3. Running. You are in the classroom or in the house----it there is no reason for you to run, please stay put and do not attract others' attention by turning the place into a playground.

4. Hitting. Are you a bully? If you're not, don't use your hands to hurt others. God gave you those hands to do good things.

Honestly guys, if you avoid doing 1 to 4, you're on your way to being a good boy or girl. Believe me, it is a lot easier to be good than to be bad. Life will be a lot easier for everybody when you're good.

courtesy words to be used at special occasions

When we attend formal gatherings we are expected to be at our very best in clothes, words and deed. Earlier, we have gone through some of the things to do and avoid while at such gatherings. My dear boys and girls, when at parties where adults are also invited, make sure that you avoid talking loudly or shouting. When you have a message to tell a friend across the hall, go up to him or her and not shout out the message. That's a no-no. This also holds true about laughing. It is rude to laugh loudly while at a gatheing. Show your breeding while maintaining conversation with friends or other guests. Greet everyone with a smile and use the following words or expressions that exhibit good manners.

Good evening, ma'am/sir. (to those older than you) Otherwise, just say "Good evening" to everyone.

Thank you. (after a favor has been done to you like being served something)

Please. (when asked if you want something and you want to say yes)

Excuse me. (when you want to call the attention of someone )

You're welcome or It's a pleasure. (when someone says "Thank you" because you've done her or him a favor)

I am sorry. (when you have wronged someone like when you step on someone's shoes)

May I.......Could you please.........(in asking for favor)

Party etiquette

Here are a few basic things to guide us when attending parties.

1. When it is a formal party where guests were invited by an invitation card which you were not given, do not attend it even if another friend who received an invitation will bring you along.

2. If you are the host, greet guests as they come to the door. You should have a place for their personal items which they might want to leave.

3. As host, you need to introduce people.

4. If you are an invited guest, bring a gift for the host.

5. Use utensils from outside in. Used ones should never be placed back onto the table cloth. Rest them against the side of the plate.

6. Napkins should never be placed on the table until meal is over.

7. Never talk when your mouth is full.

8. Eat with mouth closed.

9. Never bring too much food to your mouth. Avoid making chewing sounds or utensils grating against your teeth.

10. Never pick your teeth in the open.

11. When leaving and the host walks you to the door, do not engage her in long conversation at the door.

12. Don't forget to thank the host and to tell her you have enjoyed the night.