Top 10 Manners Every Child Should Learn | Collaborative for Children
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Teaching Manners Builds Respect and Confidence in Young Children

Child Care Parenting Tip

Parents and Child Care Centers Share the Responsibility of Social Learning

Manners are the foundation of respectful relationships, emotional intelligence, and lifelong success. At Collaborative for Children, we believe that teaching manners early helps children succeed in school, at home, and in their communities.

Top 10 Manners Every Child Should Learn Early

Here are ten essential manners every child should learn, according to parenting experts and educators:

  1. Say “Please” and “Thank You” – Always and without exception.
  2. Don’t Interrupt Others – Practice patience and wait your turn to speak.
  3. Ask for Permission First – It builds respect and prevents misunderstandings.
  4. Speak Kindly About Others – Avoid gossip and negative comments.
  5. Follow the Golden Rule – Treat others the way you want to be treated.
  6. Respect Differences – Never point out physical or cognitive differences.
  7. Write Thank-You Notes – Show appreciation after receiving gifts or invitations.
  8. Keep Negative Opinions Private – Not everything needs to be said aloud.
  9. Avoid Foul Language – It reflects poorly and can hurt others.
  10. Make People Smile – Small gestures like holding a door or smiling go a long way.

Child Care Centers Reinforce Manners Through Daily Practice

In Collaborative for Children’s child care Centers of Excellence, manners are part of the daily routine. Educators model respectful behavior and guide children through real-life scenarios where they can practice kindness, patience, and gratitude.

Our curriculum includes:
– Role-playing activities to teach empathy
– Group discussions on fairness and respect
– STEAM projects that encourage teamwork and communication

These experiences help children internalize manners naturally, preparing them for kindergarten and beyond.

Parents Are a Child’s First Teacher in Social Skills

Parents play a vital role in teaching manners. At Collaborative for Children, we support families with resources, coaching, and activities that make it easy to reinforce positive behavior at home.

Resources for families

Why Manners Matter in Early Childhood Education

Children who learn manners early are better equipped to handle challenges, build friendships, and succeed academically. According to research from the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), social-emotional learning improves academic performance, behavior, and emotional well-being

Learn More

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