The library is one quiet place. There are others: a concert, a play, a waiting room, a place of worship.
Key idea
In quiet places, sit still, keep your voice low or silent, and follow the place's customs.
Why it works
Everyone came to listen, to rest, or to think. Being quiet lets everyone enjoy it.
Worked example: Let's practice
Sam visits a place of worship with Ruby's family. Everyone is quiet. What should Sam do?
- Sam doesn't know this place's customs.
- He watches Ruby's family.
- He sits quietly and follows what they do. Questions can wait until after.
Answer: Sam sits quietly and follows Ruby's family.
Common mistake
Thinking whispering is fine during a performance or a service. In most quiet places, even whispers wait for a break.
Customs differ. Every place of worship and every performance has its own customs: when to stand, when to sit, when to clap. When you visit, watch your hosts and follow along.
For the grown-up. Before a quiet event, say what will happen and how long it lasts. Bring a quiet activity for waiting rooms. Plan a signal (a squeeze of the hand) for “I need to tell you something at the break.”