25 Manners Kids Should Know by Age 9

I saw this in an article in Parents Magazine (March 2011).  This is such a comprehensive list for kids, but then it would also be a good thing for adults to practice.

Just to prelude on manners which I'd like to add.  Someone told me to teach kids to pre-code phrases when they would ask to go to the bathroom for some bowel movement breaks.  I would teach my kids not to use the "pee" or "poo" word when we're out (especially in a restaurant) and they needed to go. Instead, they'd say  "I'll do no. 1" for pee or "No. 2" for poo.

I really do personally find it distracting to hear a 4 year old shouting to her mom "I need to poop, mom!" when you are about to indulge in a delectable brown saucy steak. But, if they say "Mom, I have to do number 2" it is a lot better.

Anyway... here are the 25 Manners Kids Should Know by Age 9.  Emphasis on the underlined. :)

Manner #1
When asking for something, say "Please."

Manner #2
When receiving something, say "Thank you."

Manner #3
Do not interrupt grown-ups who are speaking with each other unless there is an emergency. They will notice you and respond when they are finished talking.

Manner #4
If you do need to get somebody's attention right away, the phrase "excuse me" is the most polite way for you to enter the conversation.

Manner #5
When you have any doubt about doing something, ask permission first. It can save you from many hours of grief later.

Manner #6
The world is not interested in what you dislike. Keep negative opinions to yourself, or between you and your friends, and out of earshot of adults.
Manner #7
Do not comment on other people's physical characteristics unless, of course, it's to compliment them, which is always welcome.

Manner #8
When people ask you how you are, tell them and then ask them how they are.

Manner #9
When you have spent time at your friend's house, remember to thank his or her parents for having you over and for the good time you had.

Manner #10
Knock on closed doors -- and wait to see if there's a response -- before entering.

Manner #11
When you make a phone call, introduce yourself first and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling.

Manner #12
Be appreciative and say "thank you" for any gift you receive. In the age of e-mail, a handwritten thank-you note can have a powerful effect.

Manner #13
Never use foul language in front of adults. Grown-ups already know all those words, and they find them boring and unpleasant.

Manner #14
Don't call people mean names.

Manner #15
Do not make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak, and ganging up on someone else is cruel.

Manner #16
Even if a play or an assembly is boring, sit through it quietly and pretend that you are interested. The performers and presenters are doing their best.
Manner #17
If you bump into somebody, immediately say "Excuse me."

Manner #18
Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and don't pick your nose in public.

Manner #19
As you walk through a door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else.

Manner #20
If you come across a parent, a teacher, or a neighbor working on something, ask if you can help. If they say "yes," do so -- you may learn something new.

Manner #21
When an adult asks you for a favor, do it without grumbling and with a smile.

Manner #22
When someone helps you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you again. This is especially true with teachers!

Manner #23
Use eating utensils properly. If you are unsure how to do so, ask your parents to teach you or watch what adults do.

Manner #24
Keep a napkin on your lap; use it to wipe your mouth when necessary.

Manner #25
Don't reach for things at the table; ask to have them passed. 

On a side note: It is always a Monkey see, monkey do.  I myself do fail at times on this but well... we are still a work in progress with these manners.  Though, I do intend to practice this.  People appreciate good manners.