Recently, I stumbled upon a trend where adults are enrolling in “preschool” classes, engaging in activities like coloring, finger painting, and show-and-tell, all to reconnect with their inner child. They’re spending upwards of $1,000 for this experience. Instead of shelling out that cash, I propose a more practical solution: let me borrow your child for an evening while you enjoy a nice dinner out.
The real issue, however, isn’t the expense of adult “preschool”; it’s that many grown-ups seem to have forgotten the basics of civility. Unfortunately, it’s often worse than the behavior of my 3-year-old. These adults, clearly in need of a preschool-style etiquette class, exhibit behaviors that we should all have outgrown. Here are some important lessons they could benefit from:
- Cover Your Mouth When You Cough: Last week, I witnessed multiple adults coughing openly in enclosed spaces just as flu season is starting. One individual even directed their cough toward a baby, which left me speechless with horror. A simple reminder: be mindful of those around you.
- Clean Up After Yourself: Whether it’s a few crumbs from your muffin or the remnants of your lunch, remember to leave your space tidy. I once watched a woman sweep her muffin debris onto the floor of a café, leaving me wondering if any actually made it into her mouth. It’s basic decency—let’s not leave a mess for someone else to handle.
- Line Up Responsibly: When in a public space, it’s vital to respect the flow of foot traffic. A family taking up the entire sidewalk in a pedestrian area can be frustrating for others trying to pass. Remember, we’re not in a parade; consideration goes a long way.
- Keep Your Hands to Yourself: This one cannot be stressed enough. When it comes to personal space—especially around children—respect is paramount. If you’re tempted to touch someone else’s child, think again. Their health and safety are at stake.
- Practice Please and Thank You: These phrases are not optional; they are essential. A simple “please” can go a long way in getting what you want, and “thank you” reinforces kindness. It’s also crucial to apologize when necessary—meaning it can be hard, but it’s important to understand when you’ve crossed a line.
- Cultivate Empathy: Understanding how your actions affect others is a lost art. Consider how you would feel if someone treated you rudely or disregarded your situation. Empathy enriches our interactions and makes the world a kinder place.
- No Pushing: At a recent community event, I was shocked to see parents shoving children aside to get to candy. This behavior not only sets a bad example but also perpetuates the cycle of poor manners. Let’s model better behavior for the next generation.
- Focus on Your Own Actions: Distracted adults often create chaos. Just as children can trip when they’re not paying attention, adults should also concentrate on their own tasks rather than comparing themselves to others.
In summary, these eight simple rules can help adults become more considerate members of society. If you encounter someone who could use this guidance, don’t hesitate to share it with them. After all, learning and improving is a lifelong journey.
For more insightful tips on parenting and self-improvement, check out our articles on home insemination and fertility supplements, as well as this excellent resource from ACOG on treating infertility.