Manners in the modern age aren't just an issue for the "ladies who lunch" set — issues of etiquette arise every day, in every way, especially if you're a parent! As moms, we're responsible not only for our own decorum, but also for setting an example for our kids.
We were lucky enough to chat about the topic recently with Lizzie Post, great-granddaughter of the famed Emily Post and one of the authors of the 18th edition of Emily Post's Etiquette: Manners For a New World. Totally in touch with the "What's the right thing to do when . . . " challenges that moms face on an ongoing basis, we found Lizzie's advice to be incredibly useful and realistic. Read on — we hope that you find it to be just as beneficial!



Out of the mouths of babes . . . As parents, we know that anything that's uttered within earshot of our kids is fair game for repetition. And while

Growing up, my teachers would call class to order with a resounding, "Good morning class." We would reply in an off-key chorus of, "Good morning, Miss Hill." The formality of those classroom greetings was not lost on me, as most adults I met were referred to with a title of mister or misses. Over the years, I've moved beyond those elementary school greetings, and it appears many schools have, too.
Holidays have gone to the kids — and they should, right? From tots popping out of their seats during meals to wee ones eager to rip open their presents, the festive time of year can be a bit draining on parents. We asked moms what is appropriate (and realistic!) in their homes when it comes to dressing up and saying thank you. Here is what they had to say!

