It is possible to teach your son to be a gentleman if you put a little effort and thought into it! As with anything else, you will need patience and dedication, but these tips will get you on the right track. Starting at a young age is best, but there’s always hope to learn anything new for any age! Keep on reading to learn a few ways you can teach your son to be a gentlemen and get ooohs and aaahs from the ladies for the rest of his life!
1. Manners Matter
The number one way you can teach your son to be a gentleman is by starting with his manners! A simple “please” and “thank you” go such a long way. Chewing with your mouth closed, putting down the lid on the toilet, and taking off your shoes before walking through the house are a few other things to work on. Start young, and be patient. These things take time!
2. Presentation
Of course presentation is important for any gentleman’s reputation! You don’t need to put your son in suits and ties, but make sure he wears something besides sweats and t-shirts out in public. A well-groomed appearance will help him out in many ways when he gets older. Situations like job interviews, college classes, and dating will go smoother and easier for him when his presentation is spot on!
3. Language
This one can be hard to work on for parents! Kids are smart; they hear and pick up things we don’t realize! If you have a habit of letting dirty words slip, now is the time to work on that. Remember, it’s not just about keeping your child from saying four-letter words, but you want to teach him to speak clearly and convey his emotions properly as well!
4. Thoughtfulness
Opening doors for ladies is a sweet thing you can train your son to do. It’s an old, chivalrous habit that seems to be dying these days, but don’t let that discourage you! Encourage him to hold open a door for ladies anytime you are in public and entering a building.
5. Gifts
Anytime your son makes you something like a card, or brings you a flower, or gives you a gift, make a big deal about it! You want to encourage him to continue giving you sweet little gifts. He will already be in the habit of treating girls like royalty when he is old enough to date! What girl would turn down chocolates or roses from the perfect gentleman?
6. Attitude
Attitude is an important part of how little boys will treat others. If you see signs of an attitude, nip it in the bud at an early age. Remember, the way you present yourself is how he will view most ladies for the rest of his life. In order to treat girls like ladies, allow his opinion of his mom to be very high!
7. Examples
Remember, little boys learn by example. Ask yourself if there are any unsavory influences in your son’s life. Try to cut out anyone who could be working against your methods of training instead of working with you!
These are the few things that I suggest doing to teach your son to be a gentleman, but don’t forget that dad plays an important role in this too! If your son’s father is around and involved, he may pick up on these cues so much easier. Encourage father and son bonding time when possible! What are your tips for teaching boys how to be gentlemen?
Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I teach my son to be polite?
- Encourage him to use phrases like 'please,' 'thank you,' and 'excuse me' consistently in everyday conversations.
- What are simple manners my son should learn?
- Basic manners include greeting others warmly, listening attentively, and showing respect to everyone he meets.
- How do I explain the importance of respect to my son?
- Discuss how respect builds positive relationships and helps him treat others the way he wants to be treated.
- Should I teach my son how to dress well?
- Yes, teaching him to dress neatly and appropriately shows self-respect and consideration for others.
- How can I encourage my son to be helpful and courteous?
- Model these behaviors yourself and praise him when he offers to help or shows kindness to others.
- When is the best time to start teaching gentlemanly behaviors?
- It’s best to start early in childhood so good habits become second nature as he grows.
- How can I teach my son about respecting women?
- Instill values of equality, kindness, and listening carefully to women’s perspectives and feelings.
- Are phone and table manners important for a gentleman?
- Absolutely, teaching him to put away devices during meals and conversations shows respect and attentiveness.
- How do I handle it if my son forgets his manners sometimes?
- Gently remind him without scolding, and reinforce the importance of good manners through positive examples.
- Can reading books help teach my son to be a gentleman?
- Yes, stories with respectful characters and moral lessons can inspire your son to emulate gentlemanly behavior.