Due to busy work schedules, after school activities, cell phone distractions and other family matters, many youth do not have opportunities to practice and apply respectful manners in their everyday lives. Lacking respect and manners was a concern expressed through Clay County 4-H Council and Clay County Family Resource Centers. The 4-H Agent implemented a 4-H curriculum, Manners for the Real World, into several classrooms across the county. The curriculum covers a variety of topics, which include mealtime manners, meeting and greeting others and cell savvy. Each lesson provides opportunities to gain life skills, such as self-esteem, self-responsibility, decision-making and social skills.

     18 elementary classrooms were involved with a total of 361 students receiving 4-H manner lessons in 4^th and 5th grades.  In the course of each session, students gained knowledge and also practiced meeting and greeting one another by working together in groups, practiced proper handshaking, learned how to set a table for a special occasion and discussed the importance of mealtime manners. Students were served refreshments and applied their knowledge by practicing these skills at the table. Club members were informed that being considerate of others is an important life skill and will help individuals gain respect.

Reports from pre and post-test:

96% Reported learning something new about manners.

When asked, “Where should you place your napkin when you sit down at the table?” 98% students reported the correct answer (in your lap).

95% Reported feeling more confident meeting and greeting an individual.

When asked, “While dining your cell phone rings, what should you do?” 100% reported the correct answer (silence the ring and step out of room).

Parent comment:

“My child made a comment at dinner. She informed me that at the dinner table, it is impolite to use cell phones and family time is important.”