Millennials Used to Teach These 19 Manners to Their Kids—Now They’re Fading Away
Good manners are more than just a set of rules—they’re the foundation of respect, kindness, and positive social interactions. However, many parents today seem to overlook some of the more traditional manners that were once considered essential.
As the world changes, so do expectations around behavior, but some things should never go out of style. Here are 19 good manners that parents no longer teach their kids as often, but that still play an important role in developing respectful, thoughtful individuals.
Saying “Please” and “Thank You”
This simple gesture goes a long way in showing appreciation. Yet, many kids today don’t say “please” or “thank you” as consistently as they should.
Teaching children to express gratitude fosters respect and kindness. It reminds them to acknowledge the effort others put in for them.
Greeting People With a Smile and Eye Contact
Making eye contact and smiling when greeting someone sets a positive tone for interaction. These basic courtesies show attentiveness and respect.
In a world where kids are glued to screens, this habit is becoming rare. Teaching children to engage this way creates better communication and trust.
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Holding the Door for Others
Holding the door for someone isn’t just polite—it’s thoughtful. It shows you’re aware of others around you and willing to take small steps to be kind.
These days, kids are often so focused on themselves that this simple gesture is overlooked. Teaching this habit can make the world feel a little more courteous.
Writing Thank-You Notes
With the rise of texts and emails, handwritten thank-you notes are becoming a lost art. However, taking the time to write a note shows genuine appreciation.
It adds a personal touch that digital messages can’t convey. Teaching kids to write thank-you notes helps instill gratitude and effort in communication.
Waiting Their Turn to Speak
Interrupting has become more common in conversations, especially with the fast-paced nature of modern life. However, waiting your turn to speak is a sign of respect.
It shows that you value what others have to say. Teaching children this skill creates better listeners and more respectful communicators.
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Using “Excuse Me” When Interrupting
If kids do need to interrupt, saying “excuse me” softens the disruption. This polite phrase signals awareness and respect for the conversation already happening.
It teaches children that even interruptions should be done with consideration. Simple phrases like this encourage better manners in all social settings.
Offering a Firm Handshake
A firm handshake is a classic sign of confidence and respect. While handshakes may not be as common as they once were, they’re still a powerful gesture in professional and personal settings.
Teaching kids this skill gives them a strong first impression tool. It’s a small action that speaks volumes about their upbringing.
Addressing Adults With Respect
Referring to adults as Mr., Ms., or Mrs. has become less common, but it still conveys respect. Using respectful titles teaches kids to recognize authority and be courteous.
It reinforces the idea that respect is earned and should be given to others. This tradition reminds children of the value of formalities in certain situations.
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Covering Their Mouth When Coughing or Sneezing
It’s surprising how often this basic hygiene habit is overlooked today. Covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing shows consideration for others’ health.
It’s a simple way to show awareness of personal and public space. Teaching this habit can help maintain a respectful and clean environment.
Saying “Excuse Me” After Bumping Into Someone
Accidents happen, but acknowledging them with an “excuse me” is key to maintaining polite interactions. This small phrase shows you recognize and respect others’ personal space.
It can diffuse tension in social situations and demonstrates basic courtesy. Teaching this habit encourages children to take responsibility for their actions.
Waiting for Everyone to Be Seated Before Eating
In the rush of modern life, kids often start eating before everyone is seated at the table. However, waiting for others before digging in is a sign of patience and respect.
It shows that meals are about shared experiences, not just individual needs. Teaching this encourages mindful eating and respect for family traditions.
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Offering to Help Clean Up
Whether it’s after a meal or at a social gathering, offering to help clean up is a polite gesture. It shows you value the effort that went into the event and are willing to contribute.
Teaching children this habit fosters a sense of responsibility and helpfulness. It reminds them that contributing to group efforts is part of being a good guest.
Using Indoor Voices
Loud voices may be acceptable on the playground, but inside, using an indoor voice shows consideration for others. This good habit helps maintain peace in shared spaces.
Teaching children when and where to use a softer voice fosters awareness of their environment. It’s a small but effective way to keep situations calm and respectful.
Respecting Elders
Respecting elders used to be a fundamental part of growing up, but it’s less emphasized today. Teaching kids to listen, assist, and show deference to older generations is a way of showing gratitude for their wisdom and experience.
This habit also teaches empathy and community values.
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Apologizing When Wrong
Saying “I’m sorry” when you’ve made a mistake is a vital skill that some kids aren’t learning today. Apologizing shows maturity and responsibility for one’s actions.
It’s about recognizing harm and making amends. Teaching kids to apologize genuinely helps build stronger, more accountable individuals.
Standing Up When Someone Enters the Room
This old-fashioned gesture of respect has largely faded away. However, standing when someone enters shows attentiveness and regard for others’ presence.
It may seem small, but it speaks volumes about manners and respect. Teaching this habit can still have a powerful impact in formal settings.
Offering Guests the Best Seat
When guests arrive, offering them the best seat or space in your home is a sign of hospitality. It’s a simple but meaningful way to make someone feel welcome.
Teaching kids this gesture encourages thoughtfulness and generosity. It reminds them that being a good host means putting others first.
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Not Speaking With Mouth Full
Speaking with a mouthful of food is not only impolite but also unhygienic. This simple dining habit is often overlooked in today’s fast-paced meals.
Teaching kids to wait until they’ve finished chewing before speaking shows respect for the table and their companions. It’s a classic rule that keeps dining experiences pleasant for everyone.
Using Table Manners at Meals
Proper table manners, like using utensils correctly and keeping elbows off the table, are not as emphasized as they once were. However, these small behaviors show respect for the meal and the people you’re dining with.
Teaching kids basic table manners ensures they are prepared for any formal dining setting.
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