Opening doors and saying yes sir no sir - does it still matter?

5d ago1 min read

My 7 year old is learning to open doors for people and use formal manners with adults and some of his friends' parents think it's weird or old fashioned. One mom literally said we're repressing him by teaching him respect. I think we're living in weird times where basic courtesy gets labeled as toxic or controlling. A man should know how to carry himself with honor. He should respect his elders and take care of people weaker than him. These aren't chains these are principles. Am I crazy for thinking this way still?

3 comments170 views

Comments(3)

BBrianRegular4d ago

Here's the thing though - yes sir and no sir might feel old fashioned but teaching your kid to respect authority and be aware of other people's space is never going to be a bad thing. I do think it matters.

RRyanRegular4d ago

My 7 year old is doing the same thing. I think it matters more than people realize. Not in a stuffy way, but teaching kids to be aware of other people and treat them with respect is solid parenting. The formal stuff is just a tool for that.

CChris M.New Dad5d ago

I've been working on this with my kids too. It's less about the 'sir' and 'ma'am' and more about them understanding that being courteous makes other people feel good. My oldest gets it now, youngest is still working on it.