Mannerly Mike helps children understand how good manners and respectful behavior show consideration for others. Kids explore how thoughtful words, polite actions, and everyday kindness can strengthen relationships and create positive connections.
POSITIVE SELF-TALK
“I use MANNERS to show respect.”
How to Use This Lesson
1. Meet Mannerly Mike
Introduce Mannerly Mike and explore how good manners help us show respect for ourselves and others.
Help children understand that manners are more than saying “please” and “thank you.” They're also about being considerate, respecting personal space, taking care of shared spaces, and helping others feel comfortable and valued.
2. Practice Positive Self-Talk
Say Mike's positive self-talk phrase together:
“I use MANNERS to show respect.”
First, say it out loud. Then practice saying it silently in your mind.
Encourage children to use these words as a reminder to show respect through their words, actions, and everyday choices.
3. Share the Skill Sign
Print and display Mannerly Mike's Manners Matters sign where children will see it often.
Explore Mike's five areas of good manners:
School Manners
Classroom Manners.
Playground Manners
Cafeteria Manners
Hygiene Manners
4. Breathe and Stretch
Take a few minutes to breathe and move together.
Use the stretches from the Breathe and Stretch book or follow Mannerly Mike's movement video.
Encourage children to notice how their bodies and minds feel before and after moving.
5. Read the Story
Bring Mannerly Mike to life! Read his story from the Powerful You book with expression and enthusiasm.
Invite children to notice what Mike learns about manners, respect, and being considerate of others.
6. Reflect and Connect
Use Mike's Reflect & Shine questions from the Powerful You book to encourage meaningful conversations.
Invite children to share a time someone showed them good manners. How did it make them feel?
Talk about how small, respectful actions can make home, school, and community spaces more pleasant for everyone.
7. Explore Optional Activities
Choose an activity from the Powerful You book to reinforce Mike's lesson.
You can also try a Manners Matter Challenge.
Invite children to choose one setting from Mike's skill sign—school, classroom, playground, cafeteria, or hygiene—and practice three helpful habits.
At the end of the day, talk about what they noticed and celebrate their efforts.
8. Lights, Camera, Action! — Role-Play
Bring the lesson to life with role-playing!
Use the Powerful You laminated scenario cards or create your own everyday situations.
Invite children to practice holding a door for someone, asking politely to borrow an item, including someone in a game, waiting patiently in line, or showing good table manners.
Encourage children to notice how their tone of voice, body language, and actions communicate respect.
Keep it playful, encouraging, and fun!
Remember: “I use MANNERS to show respect.”
