By Jodi Miller

With the holiday season approaching rapidly, now might be a good time to have a chat with your kids reminding them the importance of using good manners at social gatherings.  Once expectations of behavior are discussed, children find it easier to understand how they should act in situations shared in the public eye (even if it is just family members).

Reminders of good manners may include:

 Always say thank you after opening up a gift.  This one is hard for youngsters, especially when they open up a pair of wool socks or other "non-fun" items.

 Follow-up the verbal thank-you by writing a thank-you card or letter for the gift received.  The art of handwritten notes are almost a long lost
 art form these days.  The giver will know that you took time to express a heartfelt thank-you by sending them a mailed card.  If your child is unable to write, just have them draw a picture to show their appreciation.

 Make saying "Please" and "Thank-you" along with "Your welcome" a part of daily conversation.

 Teach your child the importance of sharing with others.  This will help avoid many arguments.

 Instead of plowing through a group of people, teach children to use phrases such as "Excuse me" or "Pardon me."

 Learning how to wait for a turn is a great lesson for everyone to follow.

 All individuals should know the golden rule:  Treat others the way you yourself would like to be treated.

 Make sure napkins are used at the dinner table.

 Instead of yelling out that you don't like something that is on your plate, just eat other items.  On the flip side, if they really enjoy something, they should make a compliment to the person that made it.

 If you need to use the bathroom or blow your nose, excuse your self from the table.

 Remind children to not interrupt others while they are engaged in conversation.

Hopefully, going over these tips will cause a more enjoyable holiday season and less time scolding your children for being rude.  This will then cause just a little less stress in your life, which will make you smile more.  And remember, you burn more calories smiling than frowning…so then you'll be able to eat another piece of pie or cake without feeling guilty!