Every home is a little different. A good guest notices how a family does things and follows along.
Key idea
Every family has its own rules, like shoes off at the door or no snacks on the couch. At their house, follow theirs.
Why it works
A home belongs to the family who lives there. Following their rules shows respect and says thank you for having me.
Worked example: Let's practice
At Sam's house, snacks are eaten at the table. At Mia's house, they can be eaten on the couch. Which family is right?
- Each family chose what works in its own home.
- Neither way is wrong.
- A guest follows the host family's way.
Answer: Both are right, each in its own home.
Common mistake
Saying “We don't have to do that at my house.” Each family's way is right for its own home, and guests follow the host's way.
Customs differ. Shoes on or off at the door, where snacks are eaten, how a meal starts: these differ from family to family and country to country. Respect every way; never laugh at one.
For the grown-up. Talk about your own family's rules and why you have them. When visiting, prompt your child to look for clues (shoes by the door) or simply to ask, “What is the rule here?”