Actor Adam Driver is known for playing complicated characters on screen, but his approach to parenting is refreshingly straightforward. The Star Wars star recently revealed that teaching his children good manners is a major household priority, offering parents a reminder that politeness, respect and kindness are important lessons that start at home.
Driver, who shares two children with his wife, actress Joanne Tucker, recently opened up about his parenting philosophy while promoting his upcoming movie Paper Tiger. Although the notoriously private actor doesn’t frequently discuss his family, he made it clear that teaching his children to respect others is non-negotiable.
“Manners [are] a big thing in our house. It’s kind of a baseline thing that is very massive,” Driver explained in an interview. He added, “You have to have respect with every person, no matter where they are.”
Driver also shared that his son is becoming very good at using his manners, while his three-year-old daughter is still learning. His approach highlights an important parenting lesson: good manners aren’t something children automatically understand; they’re behaviors that need to be taught.
Why Are Good Manners Important for Children?
Teaching children politeness goes beyond making sure they say please and thank you. Good manners help children develop empathy, recognize other people’s feelings and build stronger relationships with friends, family members and classmates.
According to Calm, learning manners early can also boost children’s confidence and prepare them for positive social interactions throughout their lives. Listening when others speak, respecting personal space and apologizing when necessary are just as important as using polite words.
How Can Parents Teach Kids to Be Polite?
Parents don’t need complicated strategies to encourage good manners. According to The University of Florida, children learn by watching adults, making it important for parents to model respectful behavior themselves.
Parents should also explain why manners matter instead of simply demanding polite behavior. Practice everyday phrases like please, thank you and excuse me, offer gentle reminders before social situations and praise children when they demonstrate kindness.
Most importantly, remember that learning manners takes time. Consistency, patience and positive reinforcement can help children develop habits that last well into adulthood.
