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Are parents teaching manners to their children in today's world?

In my classroom I have noticed a declining trend in good manners, or the simple courtesies that were stressed when I was younger.

What brought about this trend? Why is it such a bother to say anything when something kind is done?

Let me be more descriptive and then you can make a decision. Keep in mind also that I'm being general here, and if YOUR Tommy, Susie, or whatever is polite as can be, then I'm not referring to your child.

Often times I'll reward my class for their hard work on a project, or assignment. I may bring in suckers, or some other treat. I rarely hear a thank you for this. I'm being totally serious when I guess that less than 10 percent of my students will thank me. I will always say you're welcome, and I'm a very thanking person. If a student does something nice for me, I'll thank them. I'm modeling the behavior, and I'm amazed that I don't hear it more. Every once in a while I'll even say "you're welcome" to generate the thank-you that I was anticipating.

What is the cause of this?

This is the same when you would normally say "excuse me" when trying to get by someone. Most students won't say a word if they're in the same circumstance. Instead they'll bump past a person, or wait.

Is there anything that can be done to solve this? Do you have any solutions to offer me? Do you see what I'm talking about, and agree that it could be better? Or am I just blowing smoke?

To me, the attitude of a person is depicted when this happens. They appear snobby or shallow. A room full of polite people is a room that is fun to be in. I feel unappreciated when they fail to acknowledge what I've done for them.

I've also had situations where I'll say "Good Morning" to someone and many won't say a word. I feel as though I need to repeat myself most of the time to get a response from them. What is going on?

What do you think about it?