Archive for the ‘For Parents’ Category

Did You Know? #3

Jul 14th, 11 / 3 Comments

Did You Know……The Ins and Outs of Doors

As you go through a door, look behind you and notice if another is following you through the doorway. It’s always nice to hold the door open for another if they are near. If the individual is faaaaaar away, no need to hold the door open. Those that are far away will feel compelled to sprint towards your kindness. This may not be convenient for them.

If two people approach a door at the same time, allow the older individual or the person with higher authority go first. Especially when going for an interview or a tour, let the guide/greeter go first. They may need to show you which direction to proceed.

Guys, as always, let the gals go first through the doorway. Be a gentleman and hold the door open for the ladies.

Ladies, these are modern times. If you arrive at the door first, for heaven’s sake – open it! Don’t wait around for a knight in shining armor. You could even hold the door for him until he arrives!

When holding a door open, move to the side. Do not stand in the doorway, making it difficult for the person to get through.

Parents, please teach your kids to hold the door for others. This is a way of teaching our youth to always being on the lookout to help others. Older children should always hold the doors for adults out of respect.

When a person says, “Thank you” for opening a door for them, make sure you use those magic words and reply with a smile and “You’re welcome.”

And when someone holds the door for you? That’s right – cue the smile and thank you

It’s the everyday courtesies that can make all the difference in the world.

Mind Your Manners,

Kelly

 

Etiquette Tips, For Parents, Out and About Etiquette, Uncategorized

Opening Gifts

May 12th, 11 / 2 Comments

I heard from so many parents after my last blog about “registering” a gift list for a child’s birthday party and suggesting, via party invite, what particular gift is desired. I always appreciate hearing your thoughts and what you are observing in your communities. Kids’ birthday parties are the location, location, location of real estate in the manners world. PRIME!

Several of your comments had to do with opening those birthday gifts  (that hopefully were selected out of kindness of heart vs. being told what to give via  gift registry) This blog is dedicated to you readers out there who will be hosting a bash in the near future – especially you parents hosting your child’s party.

My plea to you: Please allow your children to open  birthday presents in front of their guests.

And here’s why:

Graciousness is taught. Opening gifts is a perfect opportunity to teach your child how to graciously receive a gift. They can do this by looking the giver in the eyes, smiling and saying thank you. Readers, do you use this exchange as a grown-up? You betcha! So get on it now before your child flies the coop!

Don’t rob others of seeing the joy they have brought another person. Someone took the time to select a gift for your child that they thought the birthday girl/boy would enjoy. It will make them happy to see the delight in your child’s eyes when they open that gift. Kids get excited to give gifts. I get excited to give gifts! We want to teach our children that it feels good to do nice things for others. Selfishly, I LOVE giving gifts because it makes ME happy to do something nice for someone.

Often parents do not have their child open gifts in front of guests because of concern with how the child will handle the situation. This deprives our sons and daughters of an opportunity to grow. It also misses a perfect chance to teach another important life skill. Children can only be held accountable to the standards we set for them as parents. If your concern is your child’s behavior at present time, walk him through various scenarios BEFORE the party: getting a duplicate gift or a gift they don’t like/want;  receiving cash or check; feeling disappointed in a gift, etc. A future blog will be all about these various scenarios, but bottom line, teach your child to look the gift-giver in the eyes, smile and say a sincere and enthused thank you. Regardless. Second time- graciousness is taught.

It was also mentioned to me that often there are unopened party gifts AND no thank you note is ever received. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again:

OH MY MANNERS GOODNESS!

This is a double no-no in the manners world!

Thank you notes are SO important – important enough for an entire future blog or two. For now, please remember to send them, preferably within a week of receiving a gift. People want to know that their gift was received. If it is never opened in your presence and a thank you note is never received, well……..

Who here doesn’t like to get presents? Right! Parents – put your party hats on and make time for your kids to open those presents in front of their guests. Third time’s a charm – graciousness is taught. Mom and Dad, it’s up to you to teach!

Mind Your Manners,

Kelly

For Parents, Party Manners