Kids' manners were a topic on Money Matters earlier. I checked out a link that someone posted for 25 Manners Every Kid Should Know by Age 9. There are a few that apparently the hubz was never taught. (I'm looking at you, Manner #6. And #7. And #8.) I swear being the 3rd boy in his family his mom gave up with him. So, I ask, half tongue in cheek, can I forward him the list with a few highlighted?
I know I can't, and that he's an adult,... but seriously, I find myself irked at his parents sometimes because I'm like, "Didn't they teach you to identify yourself on the telephone when you call someone instead of saying 'Hi so-and-so' and expecting them to recognize your voice?"
Re: Manners and husbands
I chock my DH's lack of manners up to the fact that his mom just didn't pay attention or want to for that fact. When she tells me she was so fustrated with him one day because he wanted his lunch and it wasn't cooled down enough that she shoved a spoonful of hot mashed potatoes in his mouth it just proves that she's impatient, BUT... he is a pretty well mannered guy considering so I'm thankful for that. On the other hand, DH is just a big kid and some things and I think he thinks its cool to fart at the dinner table. Oh I dunno... I have no excuse other then men will be men? lol
You would think after a few awkward telephone conversations he would pick up on that!
John is the 4th of 4 boys. I know what you mean. And then some.
"What is a week-end?"
I'll admit, I don't follow that rule
nor did I ever know it was a rule. In the age of caller ID and cell phones I never learned to identify myself until after the fact. ie:
'Hi is so-and so there?'
'no'
'ok can you please let them know that Y called?'
(Note: In a work setting I do follow this rule)
My mom's side of the family adheres to very strict, formal style manners for all occasions. I really thought my parents were going to die from exposure to lack of table manners when Kirk came home for his first holiday meal. He's the 3rd of 3 boys as well.
His biggest sins are #12 (and I'm the queen of TY notes, so this makes me batty), #17, #23, and #25.
Stand up for something you believe in.
Unfortunately, I'm the boor in our family and DH is unfailingly polite.
I send thank you notes and introduce myself on the phone, etc., but my table manners are terrible unless I am really paying attention. If I get distracted, I chew really loudly (although I do keep my mouth shut). It drives DH batty.
Planning Bio
as a kid/teen, when people called my house for me and simply asked whether i was home, my mother would say "yes" or "no" and hang up. eventually, my friends got the message that they should ask to speak with me, rather than asking whether i am home. it was a huge pet peave of hers and while i was completely embarassed that my mother insisted my friends find their manners, i now completely understand! i am shocked and appalled by some of T's friends' lack of manners.
i'll add a few others (ahem, DH):
- utensils are for placing food in your mouth, not biting. do not bite your fork.
- soup is not for slurping. there is really no good reason why someone else should have to listen to you eat.
- was chewing with your mouth open on the list? this makes me insane!!
- elbows on the table - my mom was big about that, too.
my husband is also 6th with 3 brothers before him and a twin brother. yup, my poor MIL had 4 children and was then blessed with surprise twins!