Children's Etiquette Around the World

Japan

Schools educate children about manners in modern Japan. “Being considerate to others” and “upholding society’s rules” are two important values taught in elementary school. When children are disciplined by teachers or another adult, they must look down at the floor and avoid meeting the adult’s eyes; doing otherwise indicates disrespect.

At home, children are expected to ditch their shoes at the door and put on slippers. At dinnertime, it’s polite to slurp Japanese-style soba noodles, but not spaghetti. Kids use brightly-colored children’s chopsticks to eat – but never to stab food or point at something.

• Quiz: What’s Your Parenting Style? • Raising Children Who Care: Volunteering for Kids