How to Teach Children About Courtesy Titles

Set the example. Use courtesy titles with other adults with whom you aren't personally acquainted, especially when your child is present.

Always introduce adults to your child using their proper courtesy title, even if they are close friends or are younger than you. Your child will learn to use the titles and names, especially if you continue to use the courtesy title in front of her.

Reiterate new titles as often as necessary. Your child will quickly associate "Mr." with adult men and "Mrs.," "Ms.," and "Miss" with women, but titles which are used less often, such as "officer," "reverend," or "governor," may take more reinforcement. It may also be useful to teach your child the difference between women's courtesy titles -- married women were traditionally referred to as "Mrs." and single women were referred to as "Miss." These titles are still appropriate to use if your child knows the preference of the woman being addressed. However, these days it is more common -- and perfectly acceptable -- to use the courtesy title "Ms." for all women.

Positively reinforce your child's use of courtesy titles. Praise your child's manners when she uses courtesy titles without being told. Gently remind her when she forgets or uses the wrong title. Keep all reinforcement gentle and positive. Children crave positive attention and will generally continue doing what it takes to get it from you.

Decide ahead of time whether or not it's acceptable for your child to stop using a courtesy title if an adult gives her permission to use his or her first name or a nickname. This is largely a matter of your personal preference, but you should make your child aware of it and how you would like her to handle this situation before it comes up.