Showing Manners

Showing Manners

Here at True Balance Karate in Downers Grove, Illinois, we have a social emotional learning program called True Character.

I’m Master H, the owner and chief instructor here at the studio. I have two master’s degrees in education, and we’ve developed this curriculum to meet the needs of our youngest students who are three or four, and our oldest student who is 86.

This month we’re talking about courtesy — what it means and how we can show it every day.

Our True Character definition of courtesy is:
“I am respectful, kind, and use my manners.”

We began the month by defining what courtesy looks like. Last week, we explored how respect and kindness go hand in hand. This week, we’re focusing on the third part of our definition — manners: what they are, how we use them, and why they matter.

The Seven Magic Words of Respect

At the studio, we teach our students the seven magic words of respect, which are our foundation for good manners:
“Yes, sir.” “Yes, ma’am.” “No, sir.” “No, ma’am.” “Please.” “Thank you.” “You’re welcome.”

These simple words show respect, gratitude, and kindness — all important parts of being courteous.

We also talk about other manners students may already know from school, such as raising your hand before speaking, waiting your turn, and saying “excuse me.”
“Excuse me” may not be one of the seven magic words, but it’s a great example of courtesy in action — it shows respect by getting someone’s attention in a polite way.
And of course, saying “I’m sorry” is another powerful example of good manners.

Courtesy in Everyday Situations

We’ve already talked about being courteous in places like the library or grocery store — where patience, calm voices, and helping others are key. But what does courtesy look like at school?

It looks like raising your hand in class, walking quietly in the hallways, and focusing on your work instead of chatting with a neighbor. When we stay focused, we show respect for our teacher and classmates — we’re helping everyone learn together.

Courtesy in Competition

We also see manners play a big role in competition. Whether you win or lose, showing respect to your opponent is part of good sportsmanship — and part of courtesy.

Here at the studio, we like to say, “You can either win, or you can learn.” Every experience teaches us something new. After each tournament or class, I ask our students two questions:

• “What was your favorite part?”
• “What did you learn?”

These questions encourage reflection and gratitude — two key ingredients of respectful behavior.

Courtesy at Home

Finally, we talk about practicing courtesy at home. At the dinner table, are we showing good manners? Are we listening, sharing, and helping clean up? Or are we interrupting, making a mess, or being distracted?

Courtesy at home looks like taking turns speaking, saying “please” and “thank you,” and helping with chores so everyone feels appreciated. These small actions show kindness, respect, and responsibility — all part of living our True Character values.

When we combine respect, kindness, and manners, we demonstrate true courtesy — on the mat, at school, and everywhere we go.

Thanks, and I’ll see you on the mat!

True Balance Karate was founded in 2012 by Master Sue and Paul Helsdon.

We offer kids karate lessons for pre-school children ages 3-6 and elementary age kids ages 7 and up. These lessons are designed to develop the critical building blocks kids need — specialized for their age group — for school excellence and later success in life.

Our adult martial arts training is a complete adult fitness and conditioning program for adults who want to lose weight, get (and stay) in shape, or learn self-defense in a supportive environment.

Instructors can answer questions or be contacted 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 630-663-2000. You can also contact us here. True Balance Karate is at 406 Ogden Ave Downers Grove Illinois, 60515 (next to CVS) Check out our Facebook!