Young boy offers masterclass apology on doorbell camera after hitting neighbor’s truck

Good manners may not cost anything, but they can make a big difference.

Simple gestures like saying “please” and “thank you,” listening attentively, and making eye contact benefit both the giver and the receiver.

However, many believe that children today are less polite than past generations.

Experts point to technology, which limits face-to-face interactions, and a shift toward casual behavior as key reasons for this change.

As social norms evolve, so do the values parents pass down to their children.

Despite concerns about declining manners, moments of kindness still stand out.

A viral video by Alondra Hernandez shows a young child offering a sincere apology, proving that good manners still exist.

The heartfelt moment serves as a reminder that simple politeness can have a lasting impact.

The viral video, with over 6 million views, captured a young boy accidentally setting off a truck alarm while playing soccer with friends near Alondra’s home.

Unsure anyone was watching, he explained what happened to the doorbell camera and apologized, demonstrating the power of good manners and respect for others.

“We ain’t even mad,” Alondra captioned her video.

The boy’s heartfelt apology went viral, with many praising his parents for instilling good values.

People were especially moved by his decision to take responsibility, even when he could have ignored the situation.

His actions were a powerful reminder of the importance of good manners and personal integrity.

The boy’s actions sparked a wave of praise online, with many commending his honesty and sense of responsibility.

One Reddit user pointed out how rare it is for a child to apologize so quickly, admitting they would have second-guessed themselves at that age.

On TikTok, another commenter praised his integrity and credited his parents for instilling strong values.

While many parents today take a more relaxed approach to manners, this story highlights the lasting impact of good manners in promoting kindness, respect, and empathy.

The young boy’s actions may reflect a natural sense of etiquette. Still, they also show the importance of learning these values through guidance and positive role models.

The best way for parents to teach good manners is by setting an example. While positive reinforcement and daily routines help, children learn most by watching adults.

Simple gestures, like saying “please” and “thank you” or adding a personal touch to expressions of gratitude, show the impact of kindness.

Most importantly, even in difficult situations, demonstrating respect helps raise a generation of considerate and thoughtful individuals.

What are good manners?

Good manners are a simple yet meaningful way to show respect and consideration, making interactions more positive for everyone, according to Headspace.

This idea has been around for generations. The saying, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” is widely recognized as “the golden rule.”

Deeply rooted in social values, it remains a timeless reminder of the importance of treating others with kindness and respect.

Good manners can be as simple as holding the door open for someone and receiving a grateful smile.

But beyond small gestures, they play a vital role in shaping relationships—whether at home, in the workplace, or even on the global stage.

However, manners are not universal. People come from different backgrounds with unique experiences, needs, and expectations.

Understanding and respecting these differences is just as important as practicing politeness itself.

This concept is grounded in human nature. Kristen Monroe, director of the University of California Irvine Interdisciplinary Center for the Scientific Study of Ethics and Morality, points to growing research suggesting that fairness is hardwired into people.

“The golden rule captures much of that innate moral sense,” she explains. “A lot of people instinctively follow it.”

Suppose this built-in sense of respect and fairness already exists. In that case, the challenge is wdaearning how to nurture it in ways that positively impact us and those around us.

Watch Alondra’s heartwarming video below, showing that today’s kids still have good manners:

@aloooh69 We ain’t even mad.🙌🏽👏🏽 #fyp #camera #neighbors #kidsoftiktok ♬ original sound – Alondra Hernandez