Kendra Smiley Kendra's role-of-a-lifetime began over 35 years ago when she and her husband, John, were married. Together, they have raised three sons. John, a school teacher turned salesman, was a pilot in the Air Force and Air Force Reserves for 30 years. A natural-born entrepreneur, Kendra kept the home fires burning, while growing a home-based business, serving as a youth leader in her church for over 20 years, and staying active in her community. Her work as a mother, entrepreneur, church and community leader did not go unnoticed. In 2001, she was chosen as the Illinois Mother of the Year. "My best choice," Kendra gladly shares, "Was made right after I was married. That's when I realized my personal need for a savior. It wasn't enough to believe God was real, I needed to make the choice to receive him as my personal savior." The Smiley household started on a Christ-centered journey that continues to this day. Today, Kendra enjoys the fruits of her choices. She has written more than half a dozen books, spoken to thousands around the country (and abroad), founded and distributed a daily radio program -- today heard on more than 50 stations. Kendra connects with people whereever she is -- teaching individuals to make the next right choice. View all articles | Contact author

"For instance, [parents] are happy if their child doesn't roll his eyes when he meets someone new rather than expecting him to greet the person nicely," says Dr. Ruth Peters, a clinical psychologist. Do we have to lower our expectations? No, we do NOT have to accept poor manners. But we WILL have to teach our children good manners. Your children will not see these demonstrated on cartoons or prime time TV.  So what are some simple, "old-fashioned" manners we can pass on to our kids?

• Don't interrupt adults in the middle of a conversation. Explain this to your child and then expect her to wait quietly. If she forgets, you can hold up your finger to remind her. Don't allow the interruption but be certain to turn your attention to your child immediately at the conclusion of the conversation.

•  Say "please" and "thank you" without any coaching. This is important as your child grows older. It is also a good idea to teach the writing of thank you notes.

• Greet adults with a pleasant "hello" while looking directly at that person. This is something you and your child can role play.

• Hold the door open for others. Practice makes perfect.

• Give up your seat to an older person. This "old-fashioned" rule is probably foreign to most kids. You can teach them this by modeling the behavior.

• Say "excuse me" even if the other person seems to be at fault. Again this attitude is one you can model.

You may not think that each of these is important. You may be overwhelmed by the list.  That's OK. Start with the ones you consider most important.