Confidence. Courtesy. Character.
We introduce young students to the foundational skills of social awareness, respect, and kindness. Courses are fun, age-appropriate, and interactive.
Be Mannerly
In the Mannerly School of Etiquette™, we will learn—
Established social rules and expectations – such as the salad fork vs the dinner fork, but more importantly, we want our students to become more conscious of how they can be kind and show honor to others. With an emphasis on character education, we will focus on modern, relevant etiquette topics such as: how to greet and introduce yourself, how to graciously receive a gift, how to thoughtfully give a gift, the art of a handwritten note, how to welcome someone new and include someone into a conversation circle and how to make others feel special. We have structured classes for Elementary Aged students and a Middle School Cotillion program.
“My hope is our students leave our program confident in any social situation, strong in character, and prepared to extend kindness and respect everywhere they go. I want our students to be set apart by their inclusivity, gratitude, and the courteous way they interact with others now and as these children grow.”
—Elizabeth Anne Russell
founder
MANNERLY school of etiquette
Our etiquette program for Kindergarten through 8th grade introduces young children to the building blocks of confidence, kindness, and social awareness in a warm, engaging, and age-appropriate way. Whether your child is just starting their school journey or already blossoming into a young leader, our courses guide them toward becoming thoughtful, respectful, and self-assured individuals.
Our Elementary Aged etiquette courses meet three Sundays a month, with each session lasting one hour. Alternatively, during the Summer we meet three days in one week. Multiple course options are offered throughout the year to fit your child’s stage in their etiquette journey.
Our Middle School Cotillion program meets once a month for 5 months between September and February each year.
We love welcoming students as young as 5 years old, watching them grow in poise and presence as they learn to treat others with honor, dignity, and respect.
(Kindergarten–8th Grade)
foundational etiquette courses
Elementary Age
By participating in these courses, your child will not only learn manners—they’ll build the inner confidence and social grace that form the foundation of strong character and leadership.
Program Overview—
Who: Children in Kindergarten through 8th Grade
What: A series of six rotating etiquette courses tailored by age and interest
When: 3x per month on Sunday afternoons (1-hour sessions)
Where: Offered year-round to suit your family’s schedule
How: Each course runs for 3 weeks, focusing on a different theme of social development
These courses are taught using materials from the Sincerely Yours Etiquette Network by Amy Rainer. Find out more about Etiquette with Amy here
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For Boys & Girls | Ages 5–10
This playful course teaches children the basics of polite behavior through interactive activities.
Topics include: making a good first impression, friendship skills, gracious gift-receiving, and complimenting others.
Take-home cards are provided to reinforce key lessons at home. -
For Boys & Girls | Ages 5–10
Focusing on the essentials of dining etiquette, this course helps children become delightful dining companions.
Topics include: how to set a table, using a napkin, ordering politely, and table conversation.
Each student receives a resource guide to encourage practice and discussion at home. -
For Girls | Rising 1st–4th Grade
Held over three consecutive weekday afternoons, this course teaches how to accept compliments, share the spotlight, and use a social filter.
All content is presented in a fun, relatable way to keep students engaged while learning the essential elements of confident communication. -
For Girls | Rising 1st–5th Grade
This course introduces young ladies to the art of graceful behavior and poise.
Topics include: posture, first impressions, table setting and table manners, and public courtesy.
Special Event: A formal Sunday Afternoon Tea Party lets students apply what they've learned in a fun, real-world setting. -
For Girls | Rising 2nd–5th Grade
A continuation of Part 1 with deeper focus on manners, confidence, and refinement in both casual and formal settings.
Topics mirror Part 1, with greater emphasis on application and confidence in social scenarios.
Special Event: Concludes with a Sunday Afternoon Tea Party. -
For Boys | Rising 1st–5th Grade
Boys will learn the principles of modern-day chivalry, courtesy, and social confidence.
Topics include: introductions and greetings, respect and chivalry, public behavior, table manners, and conversation skills. -
For Boys | Rising 2nd–5th Grade
A progression from Part 1, this course refines core etiquette concepts while deepening interpersonal skills.
Topics include: respect in action, dining decorum, conversation confidence, and navigating social settings with ease.
Middle School Age
Mannerly Cotillion
Middle school is a pivotal time for students to grow not just academically, but socially and emotionally. Our Mannerly Cotillion is designed specifically for students in 5th through 8th grade, helping them build confidence, character, and courtesy during this crucial stage of development.
We combine modern etiquette instruction with the timeless charm of ballroom dance—creating a fun, engaging, and enriching experience that equips students with skills they'll carry for life. This one-of-a-kind experience blends the elegance of classic manners with the relevance of modern-day challenges, empowering students to carry themselves with confidence, courtesy, and character in every setting.
Middle school (5th to 8th grade)
Program Overview—
Who: Middle school students (5th–8th grade)
What: Character education, modern etiquette, and ballroom dance
When: Once a month for 5 months — September, October, November, January, and February
Where: Held at a local country club in Charlotte
How: Four sessions include a mix of etiquette instruction and dance; one session features a full 3-course instructional seated dinner
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Our curriculum focuses on real-life skills that matter in today’s world:
Modern Etiquette Topics Include:
Kindness & Respect: Practicing empathy and treating everyone with dignity, thank you note guides
Technology Etiquette: Polite and responsible texting, emailing, phone use, and social media behavior
Social Skills & Conversation: Making a great first impression, introductions, and the art of small talk, communication skills
Dining Etiquette: Proper table manners, utensil use, and courtesy to servers (taught during our seated 3-course dinner)
Friendship & Inclusion: Respect for diverse perspectives, standing up for others, and building inclusive peer relationships
School Etiquette: Navigating classroom behavior, punctuality, respectful tech use, and personal organization
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We incorporate traditional ballroom dances like the foxtrot, cha-cha, and shag swing to offer students a wholesome and fun way to interact with peers, build confidence, and develop social grace. Dance also provides an excellent outlet for self-expression and movement while reinforcing respect and cooperation between partners.
Frequently Asked Questions
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We love welcoming returning students and believe that there is always room to refine essential manners. While the core values of the class remain consistent, the class activities, including skits and games, will vary with each season, ensuring a fresh and engaging experience every time your child joins.
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To preserve the quality and planning of each experience, all registrations are final and non-refundable.
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If your child misses a class, we will send a detailed email outlining the content covered and provide any take-home materials. At this time, we do not offer makeup classes.
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In the event that a class is canceled due to weather conditions, we will offer a makeup session for the missed class.
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If you don’t see a class listed for your child’s age group, please email us at info@mannerly.com with your child’s name and grade level. We will add them to a waitlist, and if there is sufficient interest, we may open a new course.
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Yes, we do offer private etiquette lessons. If you are interested, please contact us at info@mannerly.com for more information.
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Absolutely! We are happy to accommodate small groups. Please email info@mannerly.com with your request, including the age of your child and the other participants.
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Registration occurs three times per year:
Fall: Registration opens in June
Spring: Registration opens in November
Summer: Registration opens in February
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Classes are held in the Myers Park neighborhood of Charlotte, NC. Exact location provided after registration.
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We offer a range of etiquette courses for boys and girls ages 5 to 14. Each course consists of three 1-hour sessions. The curriculum builds progressively, with each course designed to complement and expand upon previous lessons. We also teach private etiquette lessons to children (ages 5+) and adults. For Kindergarten through 8th grade. For our K-4th grade students, each course consists of three 1-hour sessions. For our middle school students (5th - 8th grade), we meet once a month for an hour for 5 months.