5 Basic Manners Every Parent Should Teach Their Child Saying 'please' and 'thank you' is one of the most basic yet essential manners that every child should learn. These two phrases show appreciation and respect for others, and their use can go a long way in making a good impression. 1. Saying Please and Thank You Teach your child to keep their elbows off the table, not to talk with their mouth full, and to chew slowly and quietly. Also, teach them to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat and to say 'excuse me' if they need to leave the table. 2. Using Good Table Manners Respecting elders is an important aspect of good manners. Teach your child to address older people with respect, such as using titles like 'Mr.' or 'Ms.' or 'Grandma' or 'Grandpa.' Also, teach them to listen to elders and show interest in their conversations. 3. Respecting Elders Teach your child to be polite to strangers, such as saying 'hello' or 'hi' when meeting someone new. Also, teach them to look people in the eye when speaking to them and to use a firm but gentle handshake when greeting someone. 4. Being Polite to Strangers Teach your child the importance of apologising when they have done something wrong. Apologising shows that they take responsibility for their actions and are willing to make amends. Teach them to say 'I'm sorry' and to mean it. 5. Apologising When Necessary By teaching your child these five basic manners, you will be helping them develop essential social skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. Remember to lead by example and to praise your child when they exhibit good manners.