Are children reluctant to say thank you or am I being difficult?

The story of gratitude was told by Ms. Nguyen Thi Thuong, a parent whose child is in 9th grade in Ho Chi Minh City and recorded by Tuoi Tre Online reporter.

"That day, my child went with a group of friends to participate in an extracurricular program organized by the school. After finishing, the group of 15 students did not return immediately but went to a coffee shop near the school. I went to pick up my child but he had not returned yet, so I followed the children to the coffee shop.

When entering the restaurant, some kids complained that they were hungry but only had enough money for drinks. Seeing that, I said: "You guys can order noodles or cakes to eat, I'll treat you". Hearing that, the whole group shouted "Yeah! Yeah!" repeatedly and then enthusiastically ordered food. While eating, the kids chatted animatedly. I was also happy.

But that joy did not last long.

After eating, the children left. Some went by ride-hailing, some were picked up by their parents. I sat right at the entrance. Fourteen students, both male and female, walked out one by one, nonchalant and calm. None of them bowed to me. None of them thanked me either.

I was actually a bit shocked by the behavior of the 15-year-old boys and girls. During dinner that night, I told the story and reminded my son to behave properly, to say thank you, to apologize; to bow when meeting adults... My husband said: "They're just kids, why bother? They're innocent."

I disagree with my husband's point of view, the children are all 15 years old, not young anymore. Not to mention that in that group there are many good students, 2 of them are good at all subjects, always exemplary students of the grade.

Do students today only know how to study? Is it enough for them to just study well?

Or am I just being picky?".

What do you think about the above story? Please send your comments and stories to email address giaoduc@tuoitre.com.vn.

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Source: https://tuoitre.vn/tre-ngai-noi-cam-on-hay-do-toi-kho-tinh-20250220140036024.htm