16 Ways to Model Courtesy
• "Say 'please' and 'thank you' in your interactions with others, including your interactions with children.
• "Don't interrupt when someone else is talking. If you have to cut in, say 'Excuse me,' whether the person speaking is an adult or a child.
• "Don't talk in movie theaters while the movie is on.
•" Let someone pull out in front of you when you're driving (and acknowledge similar courtesies extended to you).
• "Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough.
• "Chew with your mouth closed. If you have something to say, swallow first!
• "Never litter.
• "Pick up after your dog on walks.
• "Clear your table at fast-food restaurants after you finish eating.
• "Knock before you open a closed door.
• "Put the seat down.
• "Hold a door open for someone.
• "Offer your seat on a bus or train to someone who may need it.
• "Write thank-you notes to acknowledge gifts or kindnesses. Make a point of letting people know you appreciate them.
• "If you chew gum, chew quietly. When you're finished chewing, wrap your gum and throw it in the trash.
• "Be considerate of people's allergies and sensitivities with regard to things like smoke, perfume, food, noise, environmental toxins, paint, exhaust or caffeine, even if these things don't bother you."
The Parent's Little Book of Lists Do's and Don'ts of Effective Parenting
Jane Bluestein's list of 16 ways to model courtesy.