

Be sure to reinforce to them how important it is to use the word please. Then ask them what would be the right way to do it, using the magic word. They will be so very proud of themselves each time they get it right.Īfter this game is over, give them an example of how not to ask for things. Watch how excited the children get when you make this mistake and how quickly they will point out to you that Simon did not say please. You will do what Simon says along with them, however you will deliberately make a couple of mistakes by doing the command when Simon did not say please. Think of funny things for the kids to do, the sillier the better! You might ask them to quack like a duck, hop like a frog, trumpet like an elephant, stand on one foot or rub their tummy. Instruct the students to do what Simon says, only if he says PLEASE. To play Polite Simon, have the children form a circle and you will stand in the middle. It’s a fun little game that reinforces the use of the magic word "please" and it will get the kids up and moving. When introducing the first magic word, use the game "Polite Simon". After a short time they start using these magic words more frequently, when they see how happy it makes Mom and Dad. When I introduce children to these magic words, I heighten their motivation to learn and use them by telling them that each word has magic powers. These are the words and phrases that should be taught to children from an early age.

The building blocks of proper etiquette and good manners begin with the magic words "please", "thank you", "you're welcome" and "I’m sorry". Teaching good manners by turning it into a game goes a long way toward quick learning. The best way is through role playing, songs, and fun activities which can be modified for different age groups. The way we act affects others, and it's never too early for children to learn these lessons. Both are integral to creating effective human interactions.

To put it simply, manners are what you practice when following the laws of etiquette. Manners are the courses of action, applying the knowledge of what to say or do in any given situation. Have you ever wondered what the difference is between etiquette and manners?īoth rely on a basic underlying principal: treat people with respect and sensitivity, making them feel comfortable, welcome and at ease in any given situation.Įtiquette refers to the rules of conduct, the socially accepted patterns of behaviour.
