A while back, I stumbled upon a trend where adults enroll in “preschool” classes to reconnect with their youthful selves. They engage in activities like coloring, finger painting, and even show-and-tell—all for a hefty price tag that can reach $1,000. Really? How about this: instead of spending a fortune, just borrow my child for a night while I enjoy a fancy dinner with my partner. Seriously, SMH.
But my surprise stems not from this peculiar trend, but from the fact that many adults behave like children—in the most inappropriate ways. Their manners are often more juvenile than my toddler’s, and frankly, their inner children could use some serious guidance. Here are a few essential lessons they could learn from a preschool environment:
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Coughing Etiquette
Last week alone, I witnessed three adults coughing without covering their mouths, and with cold and flu season approaching, it was downright alarming. Two were in casual dining spots with open food bars, and one was in an elevator, directing her cough straight toward my infant. I shot her a look that could have burned a hole, but she was blissfully unaware of the chaos she was causing. -
Clean Up After Yourself
Let’s instill a little accountability, shall we? While I admit I can be a bit messy at home, I make an effort to be tidy in public. It’s just basic decency. I once saw a woman in her 50s brushing muffin crumbs onto the floor of a café as if that was acceptable. Seriously, did you even eat any of that muffin, or was it just a crumb explosion? -
Line Up Nicely
If you’re out with family, feel free to walk side by side, but please don’t block the sidewalk like it’s your own personal parade. I had to squeeze past a family taking up the entire width of the walkway, and let me tell you, I was late enough already thanks to my own kids. -
Respect Personal Space
DO NOT TOUCH MY CHILD. This warrants all caps because it’s a huge issue. Pregnant or not, I’ve found it annoying when strangers want to lay hands on you. Once my baby is out in the world, the germ pool is real, and unsolicited touching? No thanks! -
Mind Your Manners
Saying “please” and “thank you” is not optional. It’s a basic requirement for getting what you want. And don’t forget the importance of an honest “I’m sorry” when you mess up. If you’re unsure how to mean it, maybe a little practice in empathy could help. -
Practice Empathy
It seems this vital skill is fading. Ask yourself how you’d feel if someone didn’t hold a door for you when you were juggling a stroller and two kids. Think about how it feels to be judged without context. Just don’t do it to others. -
No Shoving
I’m astonished I even have to mention this, but after witnessing some awful behavior during a Halloween event, I realized it’s necessary. Parents should model good behavior, not elbow their way to the front while pushing kids aside. -
Stay Focused
It’s easy to get distracted, especially for kids, but adults shouldn’t be any different. Focus on your own actions rather than critiquing others, and we’ll all benefit from a little less judgment.
These eight simple rules can transform how we interact with one another. Feel free to share this list with anyone who could use a little reminder. Sometimes, someone has to step up and be the adult.
For more insights on parenting and personal growth, check out this related blog post: Why Preschool Should Be Mandatory for Adults. And if you’re considering home insemination, Make a Mom offers reliable at-home insemination kits. Also, for those navigating fertility questions, UCSF’s resource is a must-visit.
In summary, a little preschool wisdom could go a long way in helping adults improve their manners and interactions. With just a few adjustments, we can create a more considerate community.
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