children

When, IF, I ever have children they WILL learn manners.

Working at a store i have noticed the unfortunate tendency of parents to molly-coddle their children - not telling them off or disciplining them.... just spoiling them.

I am not a mother but even I can tell u that you cannot reason with a 3 year old the way you can with an adult. Infact, reason has very little to do with a 3 yr olds tantrums.
YES parents should talk to their kids, listen to them, empathise and sympathise BUT dont forget to be a parent! A teacher. Need I say it.... the ADULT.

And for Gods sake - teach ur kids some manners... assuming u can take time out to learn some politeness yourself.