How to Be Polite in Thailand: Thai Manners for Kids
Learning about Thai customs can be an exciting way for children to understand the values, traditions, and polite behaviors of another culture. In Thailand, respect plays a big role in daily life, from greetings to table manners and how you move your body. Here’s a fun and easy guide for kids to explore the unique and beautiful customs of Thailand.
The Traditional Thai Greeting: Wai
In Thailand, people usually do not shake hands when greeting each other. Instead, they use a respectful gesture called the wai. To do a wai, place your palms together in front of your chest and bow your head slightly. The higher the hands, the more respect is shown.
Younger people usually wai older people first. The older person returns the wai in response. A wai can mean “hello”, “thank you”, “goodbye”, or even “I’m sorry”. But don’t worry—if someone doesn’t give you a wai (especially if you’re a visitor), it’s okay to just smile and nod politely or offer a handshake.
Children, waiters, or street vendors do not usually receive a wai. If a child wais you, it’s polite to just smile and nod instead of returning it. Monks never return a wai either, but people show them deep respect with a low wai and a bow.
What to Do When Visiting a Thai Home
If you’re invited to a Thai house, bringing a small wrapped gift—like flowers, chocolate, or fruit—is a kind gesture, though not required. Yellow or gold wrapping paper is a nice touch, as these are considered royal colors in Thai culture.
Always remove your shoes before entering a home. It’s also polite to step over the doorstep, not on it. Thais believe a protective spirit lives in the threshold of the doorway.
Table Manners in Thailand
Eating in Thailand often involves spoons, forks, and sometimes chopsticks for noodles. Sticky rice is a favorite dish and may be eaten with the fingers of your right hand. It’s polite to leave a small amount of food on your plate to show you’re full—but never waste rice. Leaving rice is considered disrespectful.
Don’t ask for second helpings or take the last piece from a shared plate unless invited. Also, avoid licking your fingers or touching food with your left hand.
Body Language and Respect
Thai people are very mindful of how the body is used in public. The head is considered the most sacred part of the body, so never touch anyone’s head, even as a joke. Also, never step over or pass anything above someone’s head.
Feet are seen as the lowest and dirtiest part of the body. It is considered very rude to point your feet at anyone or use your feet to move objects. Sit with your feet tucked under you when possible, especially in temples or when around older people and monks.
Avoid crossing your legs, putting your hands in your pockets, or leaning your arm over someone else’s chair. Don’t wave your hands around too much when speaking, and always pass things using your right hand or both hands together—not your left hand alone.
If you want to get someone’s attention, don’t point. Instead, extend your arm with your palm facing downward and gently wiggle your fingers up and down.
Learn Thai with Dinolingo
One of the best ways for children to learn about Thai culture and language is through interactive tools like Dinolingo. Dinolingo offers a complete Thai language learning program for kids aged 2–14. With videos, games, songs, stories, flashcards, and worksheets, children can explore the Thai language while having fun. Available on web, iOS, and Android, Dinolingo also includes offline materials, a parent dashboard, and a reward system that makes learning exciting and motivating.
Conclusion
Understanding Thai customs helps children show respect and appreciation for a different culture. From the special way Thais greet each other to the importance of manners at the table and in daily life, these traditions are full of meaning and care. Exploring these customs together can also inspire kids to learn the Thai language and connect more deeply with the people and culture of Thailand.