12 Manners That Kids Today Just Aren’t Taught Anymore
Do you ever feel like kids these days just don’t have the same manners as when you were growing up? You’re not alone. Many adults today worry that basic politeness and respect are becoming a thing of the past. It’s not that kids are trying to be rude – they often just weren’t taught these old-school manners in the first place. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and look at 12 manners that seem to be disappearing with the younger generation.
Saying “Please” and “Thank You”
Remember when using these magic words was drilled into us as kids? Today, many children aren’t reminded to say “please” when asking for something or “thank you” when receiving it. These simple words show respect and gratitude, but they’re becoming less common in everyday interactions.
Writing Thank-You Notes
In the age of texting and email, the art of writing a handwritten thank-you note is fading fast. Many kids today don’t even know how to address an envelope, let alone express their appreciation on paper. But there’s still something special and meaningful about receiving a personalized note in the mail.
Making Eye Contact
With so much time spent looking at screens, many kids today struggle with making eye contact during conversations. They may find it uncomfortable or awkward to look someone in the eye while talking. But eye contact is an important way to show you’re engaged and interested in what the other person is saying.
Using Table Manners
Basic table manners, like using utensils properly, chewing with your mouth closed, and not reaching across the table, seem to be less emphasized these days. Family dinners are often rushed or happen in front of the TV, so kids don’t always learn these mealtime rules. But good table manners show respect for those around you and make dining more pleasant for everyone.
Holding Doors Open
Holding the door for the person behind you, especially if they’re older or carrying something heavy, is a simple but thoughtful gesture. But in today’s fast-paced world, many kids are in too much of a rush to look behind them and lend a helping hand. This small act of kindness can really brighten someone’s day.
Offering Your Seat
Whether on public transportation or in a waiting room, offering your seat to someone who needs it more – like an elderly person, a pregnant woman, or someone with a disability – is a sign of respect and consideration. Many kids today aren’t taught to look out for these situations and offer up their spot.
Covering Your Mouth When Coughing or Sneezing
This one has taken on new importance in the age of COVID-19, but covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze has always been a basic hygiene habit. Kids today may need more reminders to do this, and to wash their hands afterwards to avoid spreading germs.
Not Interrupting
In a world of instant gratification, many kids today struggle with the patience to wait their turn to speak. Interrupting others, whether in person or online, has become more common. But learning to listen and not interrupt shows respect for the other person and makes for better communication overall.
Respecting Elders
Calling adults by their titles (Mr., Mrs., etc.), not talking back, and generally showing deference to elders seems to be less emphasized today. Many kids are taught to speak up and assert themselves, which is great, but it’s also important to show respect for those with more life experience.
Being On Time
In today’s overscheduled world, it’s easy to run late. But many kids aren’t taught the importance of punctuality and how being late can inconvenience others. Learning to manage time and show up when expected is a valuable life skill.
Dressing Appropriately
With the rise of athleisure and more casual fashion, dressing up for occasions like church, weddings, or even school seems to be falling by the wayside. Many kids don’t have a clear sense of what’s appropriate to wear for different situations. But learning to dress respectfully shows you value the event and the people there.
Putting Away Devices
Perhaps the biggest challenge for manners today is the constant presence of smartphones and other devices. Many kids aren’t taught to put away their phones during meals, conversations, or other social situations. But giving your full attention to the people you’re with shows you value them and is a fundamental part of being polite.
Evolution
Of course, every generation bemoans the lack of manners in the youth of their day. And it’s true that manners evolve over time – what was considered rude 50 years ago might be totally normal now. But some manners are timeless reflections of respect, kindness, and consideration for others. By teaching and modeling these manners for the next generation, we can help keep these important social graces alive.
18 Childhood Adventures That Today’s Kids Will Never Experience
18 Childhood Adventures That Today’s Kids Will Never Experience
15 Modern Problems That Baby Boomers Can’t Wrap Their Heads Around
15 Modern Problems That Baby Boomers Can’t Wrap Their Heads Around
from Guide2Free https://ift.tt/bIzg7U1
Comments
Post a Comment