For most students around the country, the school year is coming to a close in just a few short weeks. And with the end of the school year comes dances, end-of-year performances, assemblies, graduation ceremonies, and other programs. While each of these can be very different, social etiquette is always important. Apex Leadership Co. shares the following tips for students on the proper behavior for end-of-school activities.
School Dances — Whether it’s an elementary school dance where kids are mostly just enjoying snacks and getting out their wiggles or a prom, where things can be a little more intimate, school dances should be fun and not exclusive to anyone. Teachers and guardians can help guide students on how to ask a friend or someone special to dance and how to respond to an offer to dance. If someone doesn’t want to dance, it’s okay to say ‘no,’ but it’s never okay to be mean about it. Choosing responses wisely and opting for kindness is always a good idea.
Performances and Recitals — Students in the band, chorus, theater, dance, and other performing groups practice relentlessly and may be up on stage in front of a crowd despite their own nerves. It’s important that students and everyone in the crowd is courteous during performances. Once a song or performance is finished, applause would be greatly appreciated!
Assemblies and Graduation Ceremonies — When teachers or speakers have the microphone, it’s time for students to quiet down and pay attention. There is plenty of time for cheering on friends when they take the stage but following the rules of the event is important. For example, teachers reading off a list of names may ask for students to hold applause until they get to the end of the list so everyone can hear each student being recognized so it’s important to respect that.
Learning and respecting social etiquette is a great leadership lesson that can help students in all types of situations throughout their life. It comes down to the basics of respect and courtesy towards others— characteristics that are ageless and timeless. Teaching students at a young age the proper way to conduct themselves in these types of scenarios will help form a foundation to build upon as they grow and become involved in other situations that benefit from social etiquette. Apex Leadership Co. encourages parents, guardians, and educators to help children of all ages understand the importance of social etiquette and lead by example, of course!
