Democracy cannot flourish without civility, a.k.a. good manners. Such simple behaviors as saying "please" and "thank you" signal our respect for other people. Manners are important for any gathering when people are sharing views and trying to make decisions. Brainstorm with children some things they could do that would signal that they are considerate of their family, friends, schoolmates, and even strangers. Talk together about what is not respectful in exchanges they might see in television interviews, viral videos full of name-calling, or negative comments on social media. Then make a list of "good manners" you would like to adopt. For example: making eye contact when talking, apologizing when necessary, writing thank you notes, silencing a cell phone during mealtime or other conversations, helping others with the chores, etc.
— Kristin Ritzau in Practicing Democracy with Children by Kristin Ritzau, Mary Ann Brussat