Austin Woman: Family Etiquette

According to Jan Gross from the Austin School of Etiquette, also an Austin Woman contributor, 85 percent of your child's success depends on their people skills. This can be rather disconcerting when observing the "fingers-and-thumbs generation" that is emerging. Texting and non-verbal communication is rapidly replacing eye-to-eye interaction, but nothing will ever take the place of human contact. A virtual hug just won't cut it. We need physical contact and face-to-face communication to live abundant, healthy lives.

Three Simple Rules for Family Etiquette:

1. Acknowledge each family member as a gift - Remember it is the little things that matter. It may be as simple as a raised glass in honor of another, a kind word of encouragement or a note stuck under a pillow. Don't get caught up in the need for your child to have all of the latest and greatest gadgets, and neglect personal touch. Love is a four-letter word spelled T-I-M-E. Say thank you frequently and show affection. Take time to ask questions and wait for the answer. Show family members the same respect you would a dear friend. Everyone needs to be acknowledged.

2. Take care of yourself - This may seem out of place in an etiquette column. However, self-respect is a foundation for good etiquette. If you do not respect yourself, others will not respect you either. If your family sees you valuing yourself, they will be encouraged to value and respect you as well. Take care of your health, your finances and let your children know you think it is important to be your personal best so you can take care of them in the way they deserve. Take time for you, even if it's just a few moments. Learn to say no and draw healthy boundaries. You will be a nicer, more civil person.

3. Watch your words - Think before you speak. How you treat other people matters. Your children are watching. How you speak to your spouse, the wait staff in a restaurant and the dry-cleaning clerk can be influential for your children. Refrain from using curse words or gossiping about others. This just sheds a bad light on you. Words are powerful. Use them wisely. Our mothers' saying still holds true: If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all!

If we don't teach our children, who will? Their success is dependent upon learning people skills. Keep face-to-face communication alive in your family, promote civility in your home and be sure to connect with the younger generation with more than just a text