30 basic manners kids should know to be kind and confident

Good manners are foundational for social kindness, respect, and confidence. These essential life skills help kids navigate school, friendships, and future careers by fostering strong communication and social connections. 

So how can parents make politeness become second nature? With the right approach, kids can learn etiquette in fun and natural ways. Here are 30 essential manners every child should know — and tips to help them stick.

Everyday polite habits

Be a financially smart family!

Be a financially smart family!

From saving for the future to understanding credit, see how families are thriving with Greenlight.

Try Greenlight today

1. Say “please” and “thank you”: These words express gratitude and respect, helping kids build positive interactions. Teaching kids to use them consistently reinforces kindness and appreciation for others.

2. Use “excuse me”: Whether interrupting politely or needing to pass by someone, this small phrase teaches consideration for others’ space and conversations.

3. Greet people properly: A friendly “hello” and “goodbye” make a great first impression and show acknowledgment of another’s presence.

4. Make eye contact when speaking: Looking people in the eye while talking demonstrates confidence and attentiveness, making conversations more engaging.

5. Avoid interrupting: Teaching kids to wait their turn to speak fosters patience and shows respect for others’ thoughts and opinions.

Table manners

1. Chew with your mouth closed: This keeps meals pleasant for everyone and demonstrates good dining etiquette.

2. Use utensils properly: Holding and using a fork, knife, and spoon correctly can help kids feel comfortable in any dining setting.

3. Wait until everyone is served to eat: Encouraging patience and consideration at meals fosters respect for others at the table.

4. Ask to be excused: Instead of leaving abruptly, teaching kids to request permission before leaving the table shows respect.

5. Don’t talk with a full mouth: This simple rule keeps conversations clear and dining experiences enjoyable for everyone.

Kindness and respect for others

1. Hold the door open for others: A small but thoughtful gesture.

2. Offer a helping hand: Encouraging kids to help someone struggling, whether carrying groceries or picking up dropped items, promotes empathy.

3. Apologize sincerely: Saying sorry with meaning teaches responsibility and the importance of making amends.

4. Give genuine compliments: Encouraging kids to notice and acknowledge the good in others helps build positive relationships.

5. Respect personal space: Teaching kids to recognize boundaries fosters comfort and respect in social settings.

Social etiquette

1. Knock before entering: Teaches kids to respect privacy and wait for permission before entering a room.

2. Use polite words online: The internet is forever! Remind kids that kindness applies in online interactions to prevent misunderstandings and bullying.

3. Write thank-you notes: A handwritten or digital thank-you note shows appreciation and thoughtfulness for gifts and acts of kindness.

4. Introduce yourself properly: A confident introduction with a smile and eye contact leaves a strong impression and helps kids develop social skills.

5. Shake hands firmly: A proper handshake shows confidence and respect, particularly in formal settings.

Public behavior

1. Use an “inside voice” indoors: Teaching kids to regulate their volume in different settings helps them adapt and respect shared spaces.

2. Don’t point or stare: A subtle but important way to show respect for others’ feelings and privacy.

3. Cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing: Promotes good hygiene and consideration for those around you.

4. Dispose of trash properly: Respecting shared spaces by cleaning up after yourself shows caring for the space and the people who use them afterward.

5. Be a good sport: Winning and losing graciously teaches resilience and respect for others in competitive situations.

Phone and technology etiquette

1. Say “hello” and “goodbye” on calls: A basic courtesy that acknowledges the other person on the line.

2. Don’t use screens at the table: Encouraging device-free meals fosters meaningful family conversations and engagement.

3. Ask before taking photos of others: Respecting others’ privacy is just as important in digital interactions as in person.

4. Respond to messages politely: Even in quick texts, a simple “thank you” or a kind response shows consideration.

5. Use headphones in public: Helps maintain a peaceful environment and prevents disturbing those around you.

How to teach kids good manners

• Be a role model: Kids learn by watching adults, so practice good manners yourself.

• Use stories and role-playing: Fun activities like role-playing scenarios help naturally reinforce etiquette.

• Praise good behavior: Recognizing and appreciating good manners encourages kids to continue practicing them.

• Make it a game: Turn learning manners into a fun challenge with rewards and positive reinforcement.

• Be patient: Learning manners takes time and consistency, so gentle reminders and encouragement go a long way.

Instilling good manners goes beyond memorizing rules — it's about developing positive, inclusive behaviors and communication skills that become a way of life.

Want more parenting wins? From budgeting to spending wisely, Greenlight’s family money app teaches money lessons for life. Try Greenlight, one month, risk-free.†

This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.