25 Manners Every Kid Should Know By Age 9

Helping your child master these simple rules of etiquette will get them noticed – for all the right reasons. Your child’s rude ‘tude isn’t always intentional. Sometimes kids just don’t realize what is or isn’t impolite But if you reinforce these 25 must-do manners, you’ll raise a polite, kind, well-liked child.

Manner #1: When asking for something, say “Please.”
Manner #2: When receiving something, say “Thank you.”
Manner #3: Do not interrupt grown-ups who are speaking with each other unless there is an emergency. They will notice you and respond when they are finished talking.
Manner #4: If you do need to get somebody’s attention right away, the phrase “excuse me” is the most polite way for you to enter the conversation.
Manner #5: When you have any doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you from many hours of grief later.
Manner #6: The world is not interested in what you dislike. Keep negative opinions to yourself, or between you and your friends, and out of earshot of adults.
Manner #7: Do not comment on other people’s physical characteristics unless, of course, it’s to compliment them, which is always welcome.
Manner #8: When people ask you how you are, tell them and then ask them how they are.
Manner #9: When you have spent time at your friend’s house, remember to thank his or her parents for having you over and for the good time you had.
Manner #10: Knock on closed doors — and wait to see if there’s a response — before entering.
Manner #11: When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.
Manner #12: Be appreciative and say “thank you” for any gift you receive. In the age of e-mail, a handwritten thank-you note can have a powerful effect.
Manner #13: Never use foul language in front of adults. Grown-ups already know all those words, and they find them boring and unpleasant.
Manner #14: Don’t call people mean names.
Manner #15: Do not make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak, and ganging up on someone else is cruel.
Manner #16: Even if a play or an assembly is boring, sit through it quietly and pretend that you are interested. The performers and presenters are doing their best.
Manner #17: If you bump into somebody, immediately say “Excuse me.”
Manner #18: Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and don’t pick your nose in public.
Manner #19: As you walk through a door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else.
Manner #20: If you come across a parent, a teacher, or a neighbor working on something, ask if you can help. If they say “yes,” do so — you may learn something new.
Manner #21: When an adult asks you for a favor, do it without grumbling and with a smile.
Manner #22: When someone helps you, say “thank you.” That person will likely want to help you again. This is especially true with teachers!
Manner #23: Use eating utensils properly. If you are unsure how to do so, ask your parents to teach you or watch what adults do.
Manner #24: Keep a napkin on your lap; use it to wipe your mouth when necessary.
Manner #25: Don’t reach for things at the table; ask to have them passed.