DEAR MISS MANNERS: Should you tell your mother something…
““DEAR MISS MANNERS: Should you tell your mother something if it is important when she is talking to company? I am six. GENTLE READER: Yes, you should (after saying "Excuse me"). Here are some of the things that are important to tell your mother, even though she is talking to company: "Mommy, the kitchen is full of smoke." "Daddy's calling from Tokyo." "Kristen fell out of her crib and I can't put her back." "There's a policeman at the door and he says he wants to talk to you." "I was just reaching for my ball, and the goldfish bowl fell over." Now, here are some things that are not important, so they can wait until your mother's company has gone home: "Mommy, I'm tired of playing blocks. What do I do now?" "The ice-cream truck is coming down the street." "Can I give Kristen the rest of my applesauce?" "I can't find my crayons." "When are we going to have lunch? I'm hungry.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage advises children to interrupt politely when urgent matters arise, distinguishing essential from trivial information.
In simple terms: Teach kids to interrupt politely for urgent matters.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize safety and urgency over politeness.
Themes
communication
family dynamics
emergency response
Mood
considerate
educational
Type
advice
instructional
When to use this quote
- Home emergencies
- important family news
- urgent health alerts
Key Concepts
Politeness protocols
urgent communication
child development
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it appropriate to interrupt?
- How can you teach discernment?
A Different Perspective
Children may overuse interruptions, causing unnecessary disruption.