For parents of young learners
Magic words for kids: polite words and good manners
Please, thank you, sorry, excuse me: the magic words make people happy to help. Children who use them speak with more confidence too, because they know what to say. Here is when to use each one, polite sentences for home and school, and games to make them a habit.
By the Eloqova team · Updated 26 October 2026
The five magic words are please, thank you, sorry, excuse me and may I. They are called magic because they open doors and make others feel respected.
When to use each magic word
| Magic word | When to use it | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Please | When you ask for something | Please pass the water. |
| Thank you | When someone helps or gives you something | Thank you for the gift. |
| Sorry | When you make a mistake or hurt someone | Sorry, I broke your pencil. |
| Excuse me | When you need attention or pass someone | Excuse me, may I come in? |
| May I | When you ask for permission | May I go to the washroom? |
| Welcome | When someone thanks you | You are welcome! |
Polite sentences at home
| Sentence |
|---|
| Good morning, Mumma and Papa. |
| May I have some more rice, please? |
| Thank you for the tasty food. |
| Can you please help me with my homework? |
| Sorry, I spilled the milk. I will clean it. |
| May I watch TV after my homework? |
| Please wake me up at seven. |
| Thank you for reading me a story. |
| Excuse me, can I talk now? |
| Good night. Sweet dreams. |
Polite sentences at school
| Sentence |
|---|
| Good morning, ma'am. |
| May I come in? |
| Excuse me, ma'am, I have a question. |
| Please repeat that again. |
| May I borrow your eraser, please? |
| Thank you for helping me. |
| Sorry I am late. |
| May I drink water? |
| Can I sit here, please? |
| Thank you, ma'am. Have a nice day. |
Good manners checklist for kids
| Good manner |
|---|
| Greet people when you meet them. |
| Wait for your turn to speak. |
| Look at people when they talk to you. |
| Knock before entering a room. |
| Share your things with others. |
| Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. |
| Say thank you for every gift, big or small. |
| Help clean up after playing. |
How to practise at home
- Use the words yourself, every time. Children copy what they hear more than what they are told.
- Play shop: your child can only "buy" a toy if they ask politely.
- Make a magic word jar: add a bead each time someone in the family uses one without being reminded.
- Role play tricky moments: interrupting, bumping into someone, breaking something.
Questions parents ask
What are the magic words for kids?
Please, thank you, sorry, excuse me and may I. Some lists also include you're welcome.
Why are they called magic words?
Because they make people happy to listen and help, almost like magic.
How do I teach good manners to a 4-year-old?
Model them every day, praise them when your child uses them, and practise with role play. Short, fun repetition works better than reminders after a mistake.