Modern Manners for Today’s Teens: Be on Time

Be on time. Planning your life so you can be punctual is a critical skill. It shows good time management, responsibility and consideration for others. Keep a schedule and set reminders to help yourself get places on time. Remember that EVERYONE’S time is valuable, not just yours.

When You’re Running Late

Being late happens on occasion and everyone understands, but give people a heads up when you can and thank them for their patience. If being late is habitual, see if there is something you need to change (wake up time, realistic drive time, lay out needed items in advance) that can help you be more punctual. Of course, we never know what someone else is going through. When you are on the other side waiting for a late friend, showing compassion can go a long way.

Teach Kids How to Be on Time

Teaching our kids this concept when they are young can help create great habits. This concept might be new to them since parents are most likely in charge, but go through their day and talk about different events they have and how long it takes to get to each one. Then, have them be in charge of reminding you when it is almost time to go.

Challenge Teens to Be on Time

Have them go through their week and see if there are certain places and times when they are often late. Discuss how to improve their timing.

Success Story

After one family reviewed this manner, one child felt a need to change things in her life. She was always making people wait on her. She set her alarm for 15 minutes earlier than usual and was on time the rest of the school year. She said she had never thought about how important it this manner was to others.

Do you want more Modern Manners in Your Home or Classroom?

Buy the book! It has changed the lives of over 100,000 families and significantly improved connection and communication between parents and teens! In the book, you’ll get 52 tips including how to tell someone no nicely and how to make a doctor’s appointment.