Listen On
Show Notes
In this heart-warming episode, Louise is joined by friend, Laura McCrae, to discuss how everyday manners shape confident, curious children. Fresh from a family trip abroad, Laura shares the simple practices that helped her daughters (ages 7 and 10) move from “shy at the table” to ordering for themselves, conversing with adults, and even reminding Mum where the napkin belongs. Beyond knives and forks, Louise shows why conversation, courtesy, and cultural awareness are confidence builders for life; and how small rituals like phones-off dinners create big impact. You’ll hear practical tips for parents, candid reflections on screens and school norms, and easy ways to help kids say “please,” “thank you,” and “terima kasih” with ease. Listen in for gentle structure, real-world wins, and a joyful reminder: good manners make children feel capable.
Guest
My guest is Laura McCrae from Podcast Support Services, a mother of two girls (ages 10 and 7) both of whom completed my children’s manners class “Manners Matter” before travelling to the UK and France.
Why manners matter now
Manners build confidence, support natural conversation, and help children feel comfortable in both formal and informal settings, not only at the dining table.
Standout moments
The girls were thrilled to “dress up,” felt genuinely special, and even asked to stay longer at the class. Back home in Perth, they began applying what they learned, placing the napkin on the chair when leaving the table and ordering their own meals. These small actions signalled a shift from parental prompting to self-assurance.
Family rituals that help
Simple routines such as phones-off dinners and a nightly “favourite part of the day” round table conversation help children practise turn-taking, listening, and speaking with confidence.
Screens, schools & respect
While online content can blur boundaries, clear norms at home, such as please, thank you, using names, and showing courtesy to teachers, encourage respectful behaviour and keep standards steady.
Cultural grace
Learning “thank you” in the local language turns travel into an opportunity for connection and courtesy; even one phrase can open doors and delight hosts.
My next in-person children’s manners classes in the October school holidays are sold out. You can waitlist for the January holiday courses which will be conducted between January 13 and 15, 2026 by contacting Louise at The Percy Institute. Details and discovery calls are also available. https://thepercyinstitute.com/contact/
Live online sessions are also offered for families.
Connect with Louise:
🔗 @ThePercyInstitute
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