22 Forgotten Manners Every Parent Should Teach Their Child

Monica Gray - June 5, 2025
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22 Forgotten Manners Every Parent Should Teach Their Child

In our fast-paced world, the small courtesies of daily life are easily lost in the shuffle. Yet, every interaction—whether at home, school, or in public—reflects the values we hold dear. Manners are not just about polite words; they are the foundation of respect, kindness, and thoughtful communication.
Sadly, many of these simple habits are overlooked or forgotten as we rush from one task to the next. Rediscovering and teaching these manners can help shape children into more considerate, compassionate individuals—and, in turn, create a kinder, more respectful society for all.

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1. Saying ‘Please’ and ‘Thank You’

1. Saying 'Please' and 'Thank You'
A group of smiling children hold up colorful thank you notes, practicing gratitude and saying “please” together. | Image source: Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels

Teaching children to say ‘please’ when making requests and ‘thank you’ when receiving something may seem simple, but these words carry immense weight. Using them regularly helps children express gratitude and show respect in every interaction.
Kids who consistently use polite language are often seen as more considerate and thoughtful by others. According to Parents.com, these phrases are foundational manners every child should master to foster positive relationships.

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2. Greeting Others Properly

2. Greeting Others Properly
Confident greetings with eye contact and a smile foster children’s social skills and lasting impressions.

A warm greeting, paired with eye contact and a genuine smile, can make all the difference in social situations. Teaching children to say hello confidently helps them develop strong social skills and leaves a positive impression on others.
This simple act of acknowledgment shows respect and can break the ice in new environments. As Verywell Family notes, proper greetings are a cornerstone of good manners that set kids up for social success.

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3. Waiting Their Turn

3. Waiting Their Turn
Children practicing patience and attentive listening, building respect and self-control in daily interactions.

Learning to wait patiently is a lesson that pays off throughout life. Whether it’s standing in line or waiting for a chance to speak, this skill teaches children about fairness and self-control.
Encouraging kids to pause and listen before jumping in helps nurture better communication and respect for others’ contributions. As highlighted by the Child Mind Institute, developing this simple habit fosters a sense of order and shows children the value of patience in everyday interactions.

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4. Saying ‘Excuse Me’

4. Saying 'Excuse Me'
A young child gently says “excuse me” while politely interrupting, as other kids walk past in the background. | Image source: Photo by Andressa Chagas on Pexels

Teaching children to say ‘excuse me’ when interrupting or moving past someone is an important courtesy. This simple phrase demonstrates an awareness of others’ presence and a respect for their space or conversation.
Kids who consistently use ‘excuse me’ are seen as more considerate and mindful. According to Scholastic, it’s a foundational social skill every child should master for smoother interactions.

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5. Covering Mouth When Sneezing or Coughing

5. Covering Mouth When Sneezing or Coughing
A young child sneezes into their elbow, demonstrating proper health etiquette and helping prevent the spread of germs. | Image source: Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels

Covering the mouth when sneezing or coughing is a habit that combines hygiene with courtesy. Teaching children to use a tissue or the crook of their elbow not only helps prevent the spread of germs, but also shows consideration for the health of those around them.
In classrooms, playgrounds, or family gatherings, this small act can have a big impact. The CDC emphasizes that such practices are vital for keeping communities healthier and more comfortable.

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6. Using Indoor Voices

6. Using Indoor Voices
A group of quiet children sit together indoors, softly chatting and enjoying a gentle moment of play. | Image source: Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels

Understanding when to lower one’s voice is an essential social skill. Teaching children to use indoor voices helps maintain a peaceful environment and shows respect for those around them.
Whether at home, in school, or in public places, controlling volume prevents disruptions and encourages awareness of surroundings. According to PBS Kids, practicing this simple habit is key to helping kids navigate different environments with sensitivity and courtesy.

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7. Not Interrupting Conversations

7. Not Interrupting Conversations
A group of children sit in a circle, attentively listening and eagerly waiting for their turn to join the conversation. | Image source: Photo by Kindel Media on Pexels

Respectful communication begins with allowing others to finish their thoughts. Teaching children not to interrupt helps them develop patience and become attentive listeners.
Waiting for a natural pause before speaking not only shows courtesy, but also enhances understanding and connection. According to Psychology Today, these skills are crucial for building strong relationships and effective communication throughout one’s life.

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8. Offering to Help Others

8. Offering to Help Others
A group of kind kids lend a helping hand, working together to offer assistance and brighten someone’s day. | Image source: Photo by Kindel Media on Pexels

Encouraging children to offer help—whether it’s picking up dropped items, assisting a classmate, or helping with chores at home—lays the foundation for empathy and community spirit.
When kids take the initiative to assist others, they develop a sense of responsibility and learn the value of cooperation. This simple gesture also strengthens social bonds and demonstrates genuine care for those around them. As highlighted by the Harvard Graduate School of Education, raising kind, helpful children benefits both families and society as a whole.

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9. Respecting Personal Space

9. Respecting Personal Space
Two children sit side by side on a park bench, leaving a comfortable space between them to respect each other’s boundaries. | Image source: Photo by MART PRODUCTION on Pexels

Respecting personal space is a vital part of building healthy, trusting relationships. Teaching children to recognize and honor physical and emotional boundaries helps them develop mutual respect and prevents awkward or uncomfortable moments.
This awareness empowers kids to interact more thoughtfully and safely with peers and adults alike. The American Academy of Pediatrics emphasizes that learning about boundaries sets the stage for respectful communication and connection.

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10. Using Good Table Manners

10. Using Good Table Manners
Children sit around a dinner table, sharing laughter and practicing table manners during a warm family meal together. | Image source: Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels

Good table manners are more than just tradition—they’re essential social skills that help children feel confident in any dining setting. Practices like chewing with the mouth closed, using utensils properly, and refraining from talking with food in the mouth show respect for everyone at the table.
Consistent practice at home prepares kids for meals at restaurants, friends’ houses, or family gatherings. According to the New York Times, these habits create a more pleasant experience for everyone and reflect well on your child’s upbringing.

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11. Apologizing Sincerely

11. Apologizing Sincerely
A young child offers a heartfelt apology to a friend, their earnest expression showing true sincerity and care. | Image source: Photo by Jessica Lewis 🦋 thepaintedsquare on Pexels

A genuine apology is a powerful tool for repairing trust and building character. Teaching children to admit when they’re wrong and say ‘I’m sorry’ helps them take responsibility for their actions.
This habit cultivates humility and empathy, showing kids that making mistakes is natural, but owning up to them is what truly matters. As KidsHealth points out, sincere apologies foster emotional intelligence and strengthen relationships both at home and beyond.

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12. Expressing Gratitude Beyond Words

12. Expressing Gratitude Beyond Words
A group of smiling children hold up colorful thank you notes, showing their heartfelt appreciation and gratitude. | Image source: Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels

Gratitude isn’t limited to saying “thank you”—it’s also about showing appreciation through actions. Encouraging children to write thank-you notes, help someone in return, or offer a heartfelt gesture deepens their sense of thankfulness.
These meaningful expressions strengthen bonds and inspire more kindness in return. As Greater Good Magazine suggests, practicing gratitude in creative, thoughtful ways reinforces positive behavior and helps children recognize the value of others’ efforts in their lives.

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13. Respecting Elders

13. Respecting Elders
Children sit attentively around their grandparents, listening closely and showing respect as stories and wisdom are shared. | Image source: Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels

Teaching children to show respect for elders—by listening attentively, standing when they enter a room, or using polite forms of address—promotes social harmony and strengthens community bonds.
These gestures of deference help kids recognize the wisdom and experience of older generations. As UNICEF points out, respecting elders is a timeless value that fosters mutual respect and a more compassionate society, benefiting everyone involved.

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14. Not Pointing or Staring

14. Not Pointing or Staring
A group of children glance thoughtfully in different directions, subtly practicing social awareness by avoiding direct stares. | Image source: Photo by Binti Malu on Pexels

Pointing or staring at others can unintentionally cause discomfort or embarrassment. Teaching children to refrain from these behaviors helps them develop sensitivity and social awareness, especially when encountering differences.
According to Family Education, encouraging kids to be discreet and respectful in their observations fosters empathy and helps them navigate diverse social situations with kindness.

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15. Asking Before Taking

15. Asking Before Taking
A young child politely asks a friend for permission before joining in to share a colorful collection of toys. | Image source: Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels

Children should learn that asking before taking—whether it’s a toy, a snack, or even someone’s time—demonstrates respect for ownership and personal boundaries.
This simple habit helps prevent conflicts and fosters a culture of mutual consideration. It also teaches kids to value consent and understand that not everything is freely available. As Scholastic highlights, consistently practicing this manner builds trust and smoother interactions in both social and family settings.

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16. Accepting Compliments Graciously

16. Accepting Compliments Graciously
A young child beams with joy, graciously accepting a compliment from an admiring adult in a warm setting. | Image source: Photo by Kindel Media on Pexels

When children receive a compliment, responding with a simple ‘thank you’ shows both confidence and appreciation. Rather than deflecting or denying praise, gracious acceptance encourages positive self-esteem and open, positive communication.
Teaching kids to accept compliments helps them recognize their worth and fosters a healthy, humble attitude. As Psychology Today notes, learning this skill is key for building self-assurance and respectful interactions.

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17. Cleaning Up After Themselves

17. Cleaning Up After Themselves
A group of responsible children happily tidies up a colorful playroom, turning clean-up time into teamwork and fun. | Image source: Photo by Stephen Andrews on Pexels

Teaching children to clean up their toys, dishes, or art supplies instills a sense of responsibility and respect for shared spaces.
This habit helps kids understand that their actions affect others, promoting cooperation at home, school, and in public places. By making tidiness a routine, children learn to contribute to a more pleasant environment for everyone. As NPR explains, this simple practice is foundational for lifelong responsibility.

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18. Introducing Themselves Politely

18. Introducing Themselves Politely
Teaching children polite self-introductions fosters social confidence and eases new friendships in unfamiliar settings.

A polite self-introduction sets a positive tone for any new encounter. Teaching children to say their name clearly and extend a friendly greeting builds social confidence and helps them connect more easily with others.
According to the Raising Children Network, these skills are especially helpful in unfamiliar environments, making new friendships and experiences less intimidating.

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19. Respecting Differences

19. Respecting Differences
A group of diverse children laugh together on a playground, celebrating friendship, inclusion, and respect for one another’s differences. | Image source: Photo by Tara Winstead on Pexels

Teaching children to embrace and celebrate differences—whether in appearance, culture, or ability—cultivates empathy, understanding, and a sense of inclusion.
When kids learn to respect diversity, they are better equipped to challenge stereotypes and combat prejudice. This mindset not only benefits their own social development, but also contributes to a more accepting, harmonious society. As UNICEF stresses, nurturing respect for differences from a young age lays the groundwork for lifelong compassion.

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20. Listening Attentively

20. Listening Attentively
A group of attentive children sit together, their eyes focused and ears open, fully engaged in thoughtful communication. | Image source: Photo by Katerina Holmes on Pexels

Active listening goes beyond simply hearing words—it involves making eye contact, nodding, and waiting patiently for the speaker to finish.
Teaching children these attentive behaviors helps them become better communicators and fosters deeper, more empathetic friendships. Kids who practice active listening are more likely to understand others’ feelings and perspectives. According to Understood.org, developing this essential skill sets the stage for success in relationships, school, and beyond.

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21. Not Making Fun of Others

21. Not Making Fun of Others
A group of kids sit close together, smiling and encouraging one another with kindness and friendly support. | Image source: Photo by Askar Abayev on Pexels

Mocking or teasing, even in jest, can leave lasting emotional scars. Encouraging children to avoid making fun of others—and to offer support instead—builds a more compassionate, inclusive environment.
As StopBullying.gov highlights, fostering kindness over ridicule helps prevent bullying and teaches kids the value of empathy and encouragement in all their relationships.

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22. Being Punctual

22. Being Punctual
A cheerful child stands proudly beside a large wall clock, ready for the day and perfectly on time. | Image source: Photo by Kindel Media on Pexels

Being on time is a simple yet powerful way to show respect for other people’s time and commitments. Teaching children the importance of punctuality sets them up for success in school, future careers, and personal relationships.
Arriving promptly demonstrates responsibility and reliability—traits that are valued in every area of life. As Time Magazine points out, punctuality is a lifelong habit that helps build trust and credibility.

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Conclusion

Conclusion
A group of well-mannered children share positive interactions, their bright smiles reflecting genuine happiness and friendship. | Image source: Photo by Ketut Subiyanto on Pexels

Reviving these forgotten manners is more than a nod to tradition—it’s a powerful way to shape children into kind, considerate, and confident individuals.
By teaching and modeling these habits, parents help their kids build stronger relationships and contribute to a more respectful, compassionate society. Let’s make a conscious effort to bring these timeless values back into everyday life.
Every small act of courtesy can spark a ripple of kindness that benefits us all.

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