One aspect many early childhood experts agree on is that good manners start early, around the same time your child is developing other important skills. You can get a head start on this by teaching them as early as possible, like as soon as they’ve been enrolled in preschool. However, it can be useful to have some expert tips to aid you, so pay close attention to the following advice.

3 Early Childhood Tips for Developing Good Manners

1. Teach Table Manners by Having Tea Party 

By the time your child has reached preschool age, they should already be well on their way to developing proper table manners. One way to encourage them is by playing a game where they’re required to demonstrate such manners. You can do so by having a tea party, or suggesting they hold a dinner and invite their favorite friends or family members. Use the scenario as a way to teach them about the proper way to hold utensils, keeping their mouth closed while chewing, and other important practices at the table.

2. Practice Polite Words & Phrases 

Another great aspect to practice with your preschooler is the more complex words and phrases they’ll need to use later in life. Sayings such as “may I please” and “excuse me” are great lessons to teach them at this point. Be vigilant when with your child, using every possible opportunity to remind them of such sayings, like when they reach for something without asking. In these situations, explain the proper phrase to use, as well as why it’s important and expected in that particular scenario. 

3. Teach Them How to Listen 

When your child is old enough to enroll in preschool, they’ll also have to follow directions and take turns, so it’s important they have the proper manners to listen to others. At this age, teach them the importance of not interrupting others while they’re speaking, and reinforce that they should only interrupt in an emergency. You can also role play situations where your child will need to politely wait their turn. 

To set your preschooler on the right early childhood track, visit Pumpkin Preschool in Fairfield, CT, today. For more than 25 years, they’ve been helping parents provide their children with the best start in life. Whether you have a child ready for one of their pre-K programs or you simply need a reliable after-school program, their staff will ensure your young learner excels in every way. To learn more, call them today at (203) 255-7505, or visit their website for a complete list of services.