“Manners cost nothing.” — Anonymous
The topic of manners has become a rather controversial one with varying opinions. Do you think manners are important? I certainly do.
In years gone by good manners were as much a part of a child’s upbringing as learning to walk and talk. In fact, in my opinion having good manners is not something that can go out of fashion, although sadly many have adopted a belief such as this. There is also a common misconception that you need not be well mannered towards those who have not been well mannered towards you. This could not be further from the truth. Your manners don’t say anything about others but they say everything about you.
“The measure of good manners is how you treat those who don’t have any.” — Anonymous.
Your manners or lack thereof form an integral part of your character.
“A man’s manners are a mirror in which he shows his portrait.” — Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.
Some people argue that adding a courteous word such as “please” or “thank you” takes too much effort. They believe that the practice of good manners is an utter waste of time. I do not agree with this standpoint. I believe that manners are not only important but an absolute necessity. To abandon manners would result in a complete and utter disregard for those around us. A society without manners would amount to sheer chaos. No amount of wealth or intelligence can replace the value of good manners.
“Manners maketh man.” — William of Wykeham.
Have you ever offered up your time to help someone and received no word of gratitude? Have you given a gift without being thanked? How did it make you feel? I am sure you found such treatment very upsetting. Fact of the matter is that saying “thank you” is not a waste of time. It is important because it shows appreciation. Maybe you are thinking, okay you see the point of saying “thank you” but saying “please” is still a waste of time. That’s not true. Saying “please’ is important too. If I say, “Help me tidy up”, it is a command but if I say, “Please help me tidy up” it is a request. By adding the word “please” I am showing that I value the help. When you take the time to use your manners you show others that you respect them, value them, care about and appreciate them.
I wrote the “Suzy the seal” book to demonstrate to children that good manners don’t only make people around you feel good but they make you feel good too. The delightful Suzy the seal character, engaging story and captivating illustrations all work together to show children why good manners are important, in a fun way that they can relate to and learn from. The story skilfully highlights the importance of good manners and motivates children to be polite, considerate and well mannered.
“Suzy the seal” is available from Amazon and various other leading online retailers. Take a dive into this delightful book and join Suzy, the young seal, on her deep-sea adventure. If you have read and enjoyed this story would you please take the time to leave a review? I value and appreciate your support.
I sincerely hope that the “Suzy the seal” story will encourage children to show others they care by remembering their manners.
Any blog or book related feedback and questions are always welcome. I would love to hear from you. If you have photographs of your children enjoying my books, please share them by posting the photos on my website and/or my Jacqui Shepherd Children’s Author Facebook Page.
Make story time a special time. Happy reading!
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