“The children now love luxury; they have bad manners, contempt for authority; they show disrespect for elders and love chatter in place of exercise. Children are now tyrants, not the servants of their households. They no longer rise when elders enter the room. They contradict their parents, chatter before company, gobble up dainties at the table, cross their legs, and tyrannize their teachers. “ -Author Unknown-
The above quote was inaccurately attributed to Socrates, a Greek philosopher who lived from 468-398 BC.

If this quote is true it definitely supports the idea that there is nothing new under the sun—children have been misbehaving since the beginning of time. Having a child who is disrespectful can be a source of constant embarrassment and distress to a parent. Here are some helpful tips that a parent can use in order to instill good manners and honoring behavior in their children. Your child does not have to behave poorly; be encouraged and take action now. Remember that as adults we have the experience and grace to realize not to say the wrong thing. The key we must teach our children is to first be respectful in all things and to then think ahead before they open their mouths to speak.
Words of Encouragement and Advice:
Children need to be taught to live well and be honoring. If you are modeling rudeness and importunity at home do not expect your children to somehow turn out to be models of gracious behavior. Take responsibility for your child’s behavior and do something about it. Respect is caught and your child will catch the fine art of being mannerly, well-spoken and respectful from your example and your discipline.

If you teach your child at home that their inappropriate or rude remarks are cute and funny, he won’t be able to discern the problem when he is out socially. Begin at home.

Give your youngster positive reinforcement. Children love praise; especially when it comes from a parent or loved one. Very often parents respond only to their children’s undesirable behavior, ignoring their victories and positive actions completely. This choice may actually have the reverse result. Children want attention anyway they can get it—even if that means doing bad things. Encourage.

Five phrases that your child must master.‘Thank you.’ ‘Please?’ ‘May I …’ ‘Excuse me.’ And ‘No, thank you.’ No exceptions—these are required.

Be patient. Children are self-centered. Every parent recognizes this very early in the parenting charge. Again stay encouraged, just as with anyone learning how to do what is right, children need time to understand how to be mannerly. Teach them the importance of respecting others’ feelings and needs and you will go a long way toward achieving this end. As they learn to listen more, speak less, esteem others and humble themselves their golden rule behavior will begin to shine forth.

Children are little people and should be respected and treated as such. These future leaders, moms, dads, teachers and who knows what else must be groomed for success and personal presentation. Don’t neglect the opportunity to one day walk in the blessed knowledge and pleasure of one whose children are distinguished and honorable having a good name and reputation. Expect more; you won’t be disappointed.