Now that most kids are out of school for summer, it's time for them to get outside and enjoy relaxing days with friends and family. While it's wonderful to see our little (and not so little) angels running around without a care in the world, it's important for them to still bear in mind a few summertime manners so that everybody gets to enjoy themselves, including the neighbors.
Thankfully summer provides us with the perfect opportunity to discover or reinforce a few manners so your kids can make the most of their break. A few will apply to mom and dad too!
Pick up your wet towels
Avoid endless laundry and encourage kids from a young age to pick up their poolside and beach towels and hang them to dry.
Keep the music levels down
With portable speakers on the rise, kids need to think about their neighbors who may not appreciate the same tunes. It's also important to keep the volume at a respectable level.
Keep screaming to a minimum
Kids love to make noise, and they should, but with lots of doors and windows open during the summer, ask your kids to respect their neighbors, especially the elderly, by keeping voices on the lower side. Good luck with that!
Take your sunglasses off when greeting others
By taking off our shades, we acknowledge another's presence and engage in eye-to-eye contact -- one of the basics of good manners.
Know when to put your screens down
A tricky one for sure, but if visitors come round make sure your kids acknowledge them by turning off their consoles -- even if it's just for a few minutes.
When visiting others, don't help yourself to their fridge contents
Even if kids are told to feel at home, make sure they know to get permission before serving themselves any food or drink -- especially if the whole neighborhood is consistently at one house.
Keep pool doors closed and secure
Make sure older children know that any empty pool is kept secure by closing any gates or doors, or setting alarms when they've finished using it.
Wear appropriate clothing when out and about
Although it may be hot outside, make sure your teens think to pop on a respectable top and appropriate bottoms before going to the mall or movies -- and to church!
Careful what you're filming
With lots of kids making videos, make sure your kids get any participant's permission before posting it on social media for the whole world to see.
Invite friends to share the joy!
If your kids are able to have friends come around, be sure they invite those who might be a little vulnerable or lonely, or who might not have any outdoor space to enjoy.
These tips are also available in the slideshow below with some images to help reinforce the message to your younger kids!
Read more:
Why your kids need a boring summer
