Why etiquette schools are thriving

And the answer to that is not, in fact, the ambassador with which your country enjoys the best relations, but the ambassador who has been longest in the post. Later, the girls head for a "tricky foods" lesson with etiquette teacher Rosemary McCallum. Here, again, what seems obvious is often not so. Soft cheese you can spread, but just break off a small piece of bread - oh, and mozzarella's a soft cheese, but that you eat with a knife and fork.

And once they have mastered the cheese etiquette, along with other skills such as flower arranging, and dressing for a formal dinner, the girls put it all into practice at a mock dinner in which half take the roles of men, and half of women. Each has a profile, and those playing the women, in particular, are expected to make conversation. And what are they? Those who imagine that such a list of forbidden topics might lead to a tedious conversation would be right. Try as they might, the girls' conversation is not just stilted and artificial, but full of cliches: the men are bankers and like to play golf; the women are wives, some of whom collect fine art in their spare time; and the children "are in boarding school".

Nevertheless, the girls themselves clearly believe they are learning something useful. It's a good experience, to know how to behave better. Some might argue that these are not things most people need to pay good money for. Meanwhile, Mme Neri, staying true to her goal of keeping her school open and thriving while those around her close their doors, has grand plans for the future. In the 21st Century, she reveals, good manners need not be a uniquely feminine skill. So, perhaps as soon as next year, Switzerland's last traditional finishing school will take the radical step of becoming co-educational.

Just as they do when dining at home or at someone else's house, kids should stay in their seat when eating instead of running around disturbing others , and they should clean up after themselves by throwing away garbage and recycling cans or bottles. Also, they should not grab food or throw food at others to start a fight, or cut or "back cut" others who are waiting patiently in line for food.

Even when children are playing outside, they can still keep manners in mind. Kids should patiently wait for their turn, whether they're next to hop on the swing or play with the soccer ball. And, of course, they should be mindful if the next person is waiting.

If your munchkin has a hard time waiting in line as some adults do , explain the situation in simple terms, Dr. Post recommends: Say, "Some days you're first and some days you're last. Encourage your child to invite anyone who is playing alone to join her group's game or activity.

Along the same lines, gossiping and bullying are huge no-nos, because they can harm others. Policies about technology differ by school district; some students are allowed to bring smartphones and tablets to class while other kids are lucky to have access to a computer lab. But one thing is clear: New technology is blurring the lines when it comes to old-fashioned manners. First and foremost, teach children that "technology is a privilege, not a right," Shaw says.

Second, help kids practice self-control. When talking to someone in person, though, kids should not talk while being preoccupied with a gadget; it's bad manners to divide attention. When communicating via technology, kids should never write anything on the phone, in an email, or on a social-media site that they wouldn't say to someone's face. Practice the "Golden Rule" of parenting. As a parent, it's your responsibility to know the rules of the classroom and the school.

Regardless of the specific guidelines, help your child practice good manners by setting an example. She suggests slowing down -- don't be too busy for showing good manners.

Take the time to be a reliable neighbor, don't gossip about others, respect your children's opinions, be present at the dinner table, and leave your smartphone in the other room. Similar Articles. Previous Next. These Times MAG. Styx and Stones MAG. This article has 0 comments. Post comment. Share this on. Your name. Your email address. Friend's name. Friend's email address.

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