25 Manners Every Kid Needs by Age 9

Listed below is a short list. To read the full article from Parents magazine (March 2011), click here.

Helping your children master these simple rules of etiquette will get them noticed - for all the right reasons.

#1 - When asking for something, say "Please."

#2 - When receiving something, say "Thank you."

#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.

#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.

#5 - When you have any doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you from many hours of grief later.

#7 - Do not comment on other people's physical characteristics unless, of course, it's to compliment them, which is always welcome.

#8 - When people ask you how you are, tell them and then ask them how they are.

#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.

#10 - Knock on closed doors - and wait to see if there's a response - before entering.

#11 - When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.

#15 - Do not make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak, and ganging up on someone else is cruel.

#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.

#17 - If you bump into somebody, immediately say "excuse me."

#19 - As you walk through a door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else.

#21 - When an adult asks you for a favor, do it without grumbling and with a smile.

#22 - When someone helps you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you again.

#25 - Don't reach for things at the table; ask to have them passed.

Do you have some house rules of your own when it comes to manners? Leave a comment and share a few with us! ~ Tiffany