Homeschooling does not end with academics. It begins and ends with creating a whole and balance person. We are training up children to become fully functioning and happy adults who live fulfilling lives. We all want our children to be well adjusted and able to fit into society. Fitting into society in this case means how to get along with others and show respect it does not mean to follow the crowd or lead a life of conformity. We simply must adhere to a set standard of respect and common sense. Teaching a child to show respect for others is partly done through teaching etiquette.
What is Etiquette?
According to the dictionary etiquette is defined as:
*conventional requirements as to social behavior; proprieties of conduct as established in any class or community or for any occasion.
*a prescribed or accepted code of usage in matters of ceremony, as at a court or in official or other formal observances.
*the code of ethical behavior regarding professional practice or action among the members of a profession in their dealings with each other: medical etiquette.
Basically etiquette is a set of guidelines for behavior in a society. We follow certain rules of etiquette to show respect for others and for ourselves.
Why Teach Etiquette?
Proper etiquette makes another person feel valued. When we make others feel valued we are adding value to ourselves. Etiquette does not have to be holding up your pinkies and using the right fork. While that may be etiquette in one sense it goes beyond that to include simple things like personal presentation, how to introduce yourself, integrity, how to apologize or say thank you and of course table manners. We all appreciate well balanced children who show the proper etiquette and respect while standing in line, in a waiting room or at a dinner table. Join me as we discuss more on etiquette training.