Manners To Go or The American Academy of Etiquette Which Is Right for You?

The American Academy of Etiquette Is the Parent Company

The American Academy of Etiquette, Inc. is the incorporated parent entity behind both brands. I established this name when I launched my business in Dallas, Texas. It represents the full scope of my work as an etiquette expert and serves as the professional umbrella for everything I do.

The American Academy of Etiquette focuses specifically on delivering etiquette services to corporations and professionals around the world. If your goal is to bring business etiquette training to a company, this is the brand and platform for that work.

Manners To Go Was Created for Teaching Children

Manners To Go was created specifically for those who want to teach life skills and manners to children — and for educators who want a done-for-you curriculum to bring into schools.

Interestingly, Manners To Go actually started as an activity kit, not a training program. My very first order was from a local toy store. The second was a purchase order from Neiman Marcus. From there, it grew into the full certification and licensing program it is today.

Which One Is Right for You?

The simplest way to think about Manners To Go and The American Academy of Etiquette is this:

Want to teach manners to children or start a business doing so? → Manners To Go Certification

Want to bring business etiquette training to a corporation? → The American Academy of Etiquette

Both brands share the same foundation: a commitment to excellence, proven systems, and real results.

Ready to Get Started with Manners To Go?

Here are your next steps:

Step 1: Get to know us. Call or email — we are happy to walk you through everything. Schedule a call here.

Step 2: Choose your training format. Live Video Training — Start immediately, no travel required. You choose the schedule. 2-Day In-Person Private Training — One-on-one with Lisa, including the opportunity to observe a live class.

Step 3: Receive your curriculum and book your first training date. Upon payment, your curriculum is delivered and we will help you schedule your first session.

Manners To Go Links and Resources

The post What is the Difference Between Manners To Go and The American Academy of Etiquette appeared first on Manners To Go™.

A student interrupts — again. Someone at lunch grabs food without a word. A child makes zero eye contact during a one-on-one conversation and seems completely unaware. And you think: who is teaching them this?

The answer, more and more, is you.

Not because parents have failed. But because the social skills gap is real, it’s growing, and the classroom is where children are most ready to learn. When you introduce manners as a structured lesson — not a correction, not a scolding — something shifts. Students lean in. They practice. They actually use what they learn.

This post covers what manners lesson plans for elementary students should include, how to fit them into your week, and what a done-for-you option looks like for teachers who are already stretched thin.

Why Elementary Is the Right Time

Grades K–5 are a window. Children this age are forming their social identity — figuring out how to belong, how to communicate, how to navigate a room full of people. Manners aren’t rules imposed on them at this age. They’re tools. Skills. A kind of social confidence they can carry for life.

Research in social-emotional learning (SEL) from <a href=”https://casel.org” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>CASEL</a> confirms what teachers already observe

Elementary Manners Lesson Plans: What to Teach K–5

A complete elementary manners curriculum isn’t a single lesson on saying “please.” It’s a sequence of connected skills that build on each other. Here’s what to prioritize across K–5:

1. Eye Contact

This is the foundation. Before a child can have a real conversation, introduce themselves, or make a good impression, they need to understand why eye contact matters — and practice it without feeling awkward.

2. Greetings and Introductions

How do you greet a teacher? An adult you’ve never met? A new student? These feel obvious to adults and genuinely unclear to children. Make it explicit. Practice it out loud.

3. The “Magical Words” — Please, Thank You, Excuse Me

Not just drilling the words, but understanding why we use them and how they change how others receive us.

4. Conversation Skills and Active Listening

How to take turns. How not to interrupt. How to ask a question that shows you were actually listening. These are disappearing skills — and they matter enormously.

5. Body Language and Posture

Children often have no idea what their bodies are communicating. A quick lesson on posture and presence can be genuinely eye-opening for a third grader.

6. Handshakes

A firm, confident handshake is one of the most memorable social skills a child can learn. It stays with them. Teachers report that students practice this for weeks.

7. Table Manners

From the school cafeteria to a family dinner to a future job interview lunch — table manners are practical, transferable, and surprisingly fun to teach.

8. Thank-You Notes

The handwritten note is not dead. Teaching students to write a proper thank-you note is a lesson in gratitude, communication, and follow-through.

9. Tech Manners and Digital Etiquette

Where do devices belong at the table? How do you communicate respectfully online? Elementary students need this framework now — before habits form.

10. Manners in Public Places

The library. The restaurant. The doctor’s office. Children thrive when they know what’s expected of them in different environments.

How to Fit Manners Into Your School Week

You don’t need a dedicated period. The teachers who use manners curricula most successfully weave it in — ten minutes before lunch, five minutes at morning meeting, a quick role-play before a field trip.

The key is having materials that don’t require you to create anything from scratch. When a lesson plan is already written, scripted, and printed, you pick it up and teach. That’s it.

Some teachers use a lesson a week. Some do one topic per month and go deep. Others introduce a concept Monday and reinforce it through Friday with small moments — a handshake at the door, a table manners reminder before lunch, a conversation skills warm-up before partner work. The structure is flexible. The results are real.

What a Done-For-You Manners Curriculum Looks Like

The Manners To Go™ Elementary Curriculum was built specifically for this reality: teachers who care deeply and have almost no extra time.

It includes 17+ lesson plans covering every topic above — with scripted teacher prompts, printable student handouts, role-playing activities, PowerPoint slides, and interactive voice animations for auditory learners. Everything is ready the moment you download it.

Teachers at Global Leadership Academy in Philadelphia, Jefferson Elementary in Westfield, NJ, and schools across the country have used it across classrooms, school assemblies, and after-school programs. The feedback is consistent: students engage immediately, and the skills show up outside the classroom — in the lunchroom, in the hallway, at home.

“Mrs. Richey’s manners lessons were interactive, fun, and extremely beneficial. I see the girls continuing to use the skills in our lunch program — even teaching others.”

— Kristina Kingma, 4th Grade Teacher, Global Leadership Academy Charter School

Start With One Lesson This Week

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment, this is it. Download a free elementary manners lesson plan from Manners To Go™ and see exactly what the curriculum feels like to teach. No prep required. No experience in etiquette education needed. Just open it, follow the guide, and watch what happens in your classroom.

Every child deserves to feel confident, comfortable, and ready for the world. You can be the one who gives them that.

Download the Free Lesson Plan →

Explore the Full Elementary Curriculum →

The post Manners Lesson Plans for Elementary Students: What to Teach and How to Start This Week appeared first on Manners To Go™.

Something exciting is happening in the world of children’s manners education—and once again, our Manners To Go® community is at the center of it.

One of our certified licensees was recently interviewed on Katie Lee Biegel’s podcast, All on the Table, where she shared the importance of teaching children confidence, kindness, and modern manners. This national spotlight is a beautiful reflection of what we see every day: manners matter more than ever, and the world is taking notice.

You can listen to the full podcast here:
All on the Table with Katie Lee Biegel

The Power of Certification: A Real Success Story

When someone from our Manners To Go® family steps into the media spotlight, it demonstrates the cultural shift we’re experiencing firsthand. Parents, schools, and communities are actively seeking guidance in social skills, emotional intelligence, and character development.

Our licensee’s podcast feature showcases what’s possible when you pair passion with a world-class curriculum and modern mentorship. It represents:

• The growing demand for children’s manners education
• How qualified etiquette educators are making a difference
• Why now is a powerful time to start a manners business

Why Manners Education Is Expanding

Today’s families want more than academic success—they want children who show kindness, respect, emotional awareness, and confident communication. Manners classes are no longer optional. They are becoming essential.

This is why we continue to see:

• Schools requesting manners classes
• Parents searching for enrichment programs
• Communities wanting guidance and leadership
• Media outlets highlighting the importance of social skills

And our certified licensees are stepping in to meet this rising demand.

How Manners To Go® Helps Educators Stand Out

Every certified licensee receives more than a curriculum. They gain:

• A complete, modern program for teaching manners and social-emotional skills
• Personalized mentorship and business support
• Professional branding and credibility
• A community of like-minded educators

This strong foundation is what allows our licensees to confidently share their expertise—whether in classrooms, media interviews, community events, or on national podcasts.

Your Invitation to Join the Manners Movement

If you’ve been thinking about starting a business teaching manners to children, this moment is worth paying attention to. The world is looking for leaders who can teach confidence, character, and connection.

Our licensee’s feature on Katie Lee Biegel’s podcast is not an exception—it’s a glimpse into what’s unfolding in 2025 and beyond.

Learn more about the Manners To Go® Certification →

FAQ: Becoming a Certified Manners To Go® Educator

What is included in the Manners To Go® Certification?

You receive a complete teaching curriculum, private training, business support, marketing tools, and ongoing mentorship directly with founder Lisa Richey.

Do I need a background in education?

No. Many licensees come from different professional paths. The training prepares you to teach with confidence, even if you have never taught before.

How quickly can I begin teaching after certification?

Most licensees are ready to begin teaching immediately after their training session, whether in-person or virtual.

Where can I teach manners classes?

You can teach in schools, enrichment programs, community centers, private homes, camps, and special events. The business model is flexible and customizable.

Here is a FREE Guide to Help YOU Start a Business Teaching Manners to Children

CLICK THE IMAGE TO GET THE DOWNLOAD RIGHT NOW

   

Here Are Your Next Steps

Get to Know Manners To Go™

Most likely, you will want to get to know us. Feel free to call or email us. Click on the links below. We are happy to discuss the details with you.

Send Email to Lisa Richey

Schedule a Call With Lisa

Decide on the best training option for you

We offer two trainings to become certified to teach manners to children:

Option #1:

“Live” Video Training

If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOT self-guided.

Learn More

Option #2:

Two-Day In-Person

PRIVATE Training.  That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business.  Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.

Learn More

Receive the curriculum and book your training dates

Upon payment, you receive the curriculum. Next, we will send an email asking you to schedule your first training date.

Join the
Manners To Go™ movement with Lisa Richey.

Email to Lisa Richey

The post Katie Lee Biegel Talks Manners on Her Podcast appeared first on Manners To Go™.

I was recently featured in Parenting Special Needs Magazine, where I shared gentle, practical ways to help children feel more confident during holiday events. You can read the full piece and watch the video here:

Holiday Manners for Kids with Special Needs: Simple Tips for Confident Gatherings

Below, I’m expanding on those ideas—offering timeless guidance you can use at home, in the classroom, or in your manners lessons.

1. Holiday Buffets and Special Events: Simple Table Manners for Kids

Buffets and festive spreads can feel overwhelming for children. A little preparation goes a long way in helping them feel calm and in control.

Share a few simple reminders before you arrive:

• Walk slowly and wait your turn in line.
• Take small portions first—you can always go back for more.
• Hold your plate with both hands to avoid spills.
• Keep a napkin nearby for quick, calm cleanups.

These small habits create ease and confidence, especially in busy rooms filled with people, sound, and movement.

2. Slow the Pace: Helping Kids Enjoy Their Food

Holiday meals are not a race. Many children benefit from a gentle reminder to slow down, take a breath, and truly enjoy their food.

You might say:

• “Pause and enjoy what’s on your fork.”
• “We have plenty of time—let’s all take it slowly.”
• “Savor each bite and notice the flavors.”

These phrases help create a calmer pace at the table and support children who may feel overstimulated or rushed.

3. What to Do When You Have Food in Your Mouth

It happens often: a child takes a bite and someone immediately asks a question. This can create pressure to talk with a full mouth.

Teach a simple, elegant response:

• Pause and stop chewing quickly.
• Make eye contact and smile with their eyes.
• Raise one finger slightly as a polite signal, “One moment, please.”
• Finish chewing, swallow, then respond to the question.

This small script gives children permission to slow down and respond with ease, instead of rushing or feeling embarrassed.

4. Holiday Conversation Skills for Kids

Holiday gatherings are a beautiful opportunity to practice conversation skills. Children love having a simple “how to” for talking with relatives and guests.

Offer these gentle guidelines:

• Look at the person who is speaking to you.
• Listen with your whole face—eyes, expression, and body turned toward them.
• Ask open-ended questions like, “What was your favorite part of the day?”
• Add a short comment or follow-up question to keep the conversation going.

These soft skills help children feel more included, capable, and connected during the holidays—and beyond.

A Season of Grace, Warmth, and Connection

Holiday manners are not about perfection. They are about confidence, presence, and creating ease for the children we love.

If you’d like more holiday ideas and tips, you can explore my feature in Parenting Special Needs Magazine here:

Holiday Manners for Kids with Special Needs: Simple Tips for Confident Gatherings

May this season bring kindness, calm moments, and beautiful gatherings for you and the children in your life.

Holiday Manners for Kids: FAQ

How do I teach my child table manners for holiday gatherings?

Start with a few simple, repeatable skills: walking slowly at the buffet, taking small portions, using a napkin, and staying seated while eating. Practice at home before the event so your child feels secure and knows what to expect.

How can I help my child slow down when eating during the holidays?

Set a relaxed tone. Invite everyone at the table to slow down, breathe, and enjoy their food. Use gentle prompts like “We’re not in a hurry” or “Let’s take our time and savor each bite,” and model the pace you’d like to see.

What should my child do if someone asks a question while they have food in their mouth?

Teach your child a simple script: pause, make eye contact, smile, and raise one finger as a signal to wait. Then have them finish chewing, swallow, and respond. This keeps the interaction polite and comfortable for both sides.

How can I support a child with special needs at holiday meals?

Prepare ahead of time by talking about what the event will look like, who will be there, and what the food and surroundings might be like. Offer clear, simple expectations, and give your child breaks if the environment becomes overstimulating. Most of all, focus on comfort, connection, and small, achievable steps.

4. How can I support kids with special needs at holiday gatherings?

Prepare them ahead of time with visuals or simple expectations, keep routines consistent when possible, offer breaks, and focus on comfort over perfection.

The post Holiday Manners for Kids: Simple Tips for Confident Gatherings appeared first on Manners To Go™.

 In a world buzzing with notifications, fast conversations, teaching children the art of connection is a modern-day superpower.

Good manners are no longer about knowing which fork to use at a formal dinner. 

Today, they’re about confidence, kindness, and knowing how to navigate every social situation with ease. And if you’re thinking about starting a business teaching manners to children, you’re not just sharing etiquette—you’re shaping the future.

Why Manners Matter More Than Ever

In a world where face-to-face interactions are becoming rare, those who can shake a hand with confidence, hold a conversation with ease, and send a thoughtful thank-you note (instead of just a thumbs-up emoji) will always stand out. 

Grace never goes out of style—it evolves.

When you become a certified manners expert, you get to teach:
✔ The Power of First Impressions: A polished introduction is unforgettable.
✔ Confidence Through Conversation: How to speak with warmth, clarity, and ease.
✔ Social Skills That Open Doors: Knowing how to engage, listen, and respond.

Quick Tips: The New Manners for a Modern World

Want a taste of what you’ll teach? Here are three simple lessons that instantly elevate everyday interactions:

💡 The One-Second Rule: Eye contact should be warm and natural—hold for one second before glancing away. It signals confidence, connection, and presence.

💡 The Signature Greeting: Teach children to introduce themselves with a firm handshake, a smile, and a clear “Nice to meet you!” This small act is a game-changer.

💡 The ‘Thank You’ Effect: Encourage handwritten notes, thoughtful follow-ups, and a sincere “thank you” in conversations. Gratitude is a luxury in today’s digital world.

Teach Elegance. Build a Business. Make an Impact.

Related Article: What is Poise and How to Teach It

Teaching manners isn’t about old-school rules—it’s about giving children the tools to shine in every room they walk into. And when you do, you become the go-to expert in your community.

Ready to turn your love for etiquette into a thriving business? Let’s get you certified. Because grace, confidence, and charm never go out of style.

Here is a FREE Guide to Help YOU Start a Business Teaching Manners to Children

CLICK THE IMAGE TO GET THE DOWNLOAD RIGHT NOW

   

Here Are Your Next Steps

Get to Know Manners To Go™

Most likely, you will want to get to know us. Feel free to call or email us. Click on the links below. We are happy to discuss the details with you.

Send Email to Lisa Richey

Schedule a Call With Lisa

Decide on the best training option for you

We offer two trainings to become certified to teach manners to children:

Option #1:

“Live” Video Training

If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOT self-guided.

Learn More

Option #2:

Two-Day In-Person

PRIVATE Training.  That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business.  Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.

Learn More

Receive the curriculum and book your training dates

Upon payment, you receive the curriculum. Next, we will send an email asking you to schedule your first training date.

Join the
Manners To Go™ movement with Lisa Richey.

Email to Lisa Richey

The post The New Elegance: Teaching Manners for a Modern World appeared first on Manners To Go™.

What Mentorship Really Means

A mentor is not the same as a coach. A coach offers strategies and structure. A mentor offers wisdom, perspective, and a relationship built on trust.

Mentorship is a close, genuine connection—one that keeps your best interest at heart. It’s about walking beside you as you make important business decisions, helping you refine your message, elevate your presence, and create a vision that feels true to who you are.

When you’re certified with Manners To Go®, you are not a number. You’re seen, heard, and guided.

Why Mentorship Matters When You’re Starting a Business

• Personalized mentorship & feedback—so you feel supported, not overwhelmed.
• Ongoing access & real conversations—momentum that moves your business forward.
• A proven framework—curriculum, launch steps, and visibility strategies that work.
• Confidence & accountability—because I believe in your success as much as you do.

My goal is to help you not only become certified but also become the woman who runs her business with grace, purpose, and profit.

A Relationship That Lasts

Many of our certified educators describe their experience as life-changing. They leave inspired, equipped, and connected—not only to a curriculum, but to a mentor who continues to guide and celebrate their growth.

That’s the heart of Manners To Go®. It’s more than a certification. It’s a relationship built on belief, encouragement, and results.

Get Certified & Start With Mentorship »

FAQs

How is mentorship different from coaching inside Manners To Go®?

Coaching gives tactics; mentorship gives proximity, perspective, and a relationship that supports your long-term growth as a business owner and educator.

Do I receive access to Lisa if I choose virtual training?

Yes. Both virtual and in-person options include direct access, feedback, and guidance from Lisa throughout your certification and launch.

What kind of business topics do you mentor me through?

Positioning, pricing, packaging, outreach to schools and parents, launching your first classes, presentations, and building your brand with confidence.

Who is this certification ideal for?

Women who want to start a manners business, teach children essential life skills, and grow with an elegant, modern curriculum—supported by true mentorship.

Ready to take the next step? Explore certification details or start a conversation.

Related Article: Your Etiquette Style: Which Are You?

Here is a FREE Guide to Help YOU Start a Business Teaching Manners to Children

CLICK THE IMAGE TO GET THE DOWNLOAD RIGHT NOW

   

Here Are Your Next Steps

Get to Know Manners To Go™

Most likely, you will want to get to know us. Feel free to call or email us. Click on the links below. We are happy to discuss the details with you.

Send Email to Lisa Richey

Schedule a Call With Lisa

Decide on the best training option for you

We offer two trainings to become certified to teach manners to children:

Option #1:

“Live” Video Training

If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOT self-guided.

Learn More

Option #2:

Two-Day In-Person

PRIVATE Training.  That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business.  Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.

Learn More

Receive the curriculum and book your training dates

Upon payment, you receive the curriculum. Next, we will send an email asking you to schedule your first training date.

Join the
Manners To Go™ movement with Lisa Richey.

Email to Lisa Richey

The post Power of Mentorship Become Certified with Manners To Go appeared first on Manners To Go™.