All of us as parents have experienced that sinking feeling when we notice our children doing something inappropriate or less than desirable in public. Whether it's positioning a finger in a precarious spot or running through a public space as if it’s a playground, odds are there are moments when we all wonder whether our children will ever exhibit good manners. No matter how hard we try, it seems as if our voices are either ignored or not heard at all.
In reality, there’s simply no way to anticipate every challenge that we may be confronted with as a parents. However, knowing the proper response isn’t an impossible goal…for children OR for any of us as parents! Most often, we just need some assistance in teaching children manners. No matter how well-educated we are about etiquette, most of us can always learn more. “Practice makes Polished!” are three of our favorite words to live by at Charming Children. In order to truly make these rules “stick” and turn them into habits, it is imperative to reinforce them in all types of social settings.
Clearly, children need guidance more than ever in today’s overly casual society. Those whose social skills are polished and natural will shine no matter where they are, whether it be at a special event, athletic game, college and beyond.
Gone are the days of white gloves, pinafores, bows and curtsies. Now, we must remove the stigma from the old, uptight image of manners and bring forth a new, modern approach that is more befitting of today’s world. Charming Children is here to lead the way!
Nicole "Miss Nicole" Dragone
Founder of Charming Children, LLC
Nicole "Miss Nicole" Dragone
Founder of Charming Children, LLC
After years working in both the retail and service industries, Ms. Dragone made the choice to stay at home to raise and help”civilize” her three young children, Max, Spencer and Charlotte. During these past nine years and with frequent reference to Emily Post’s The Guide To Good Manners for Kids, Ms. Dragone discovered that understanding proper etiquette, especially in everyday situations at an early age, is an essential life skill.
It was then a natural progression for Ms. Dragone to create a business centered around the grooming of proper manners & etiquette for children and families alike. Drawing upon her contacts in the early education field, she created enrichment programs for schools to polish social behaviors and skills amongst children the same ages as her own.
Ms. Dragone is a graduate of Michigan’s Northwood University Hospitality program, followed by years of experience as a sales and social events planner with Hyatt Hotels & Resorts. Additionally, she is recognized as an Etiquette Trainer after completing a protocol course with Elena Neitlich, Founder of Etiquette Moms and Moms on Edge, LLC. Nicole Dragone is the founder and creator of Charming Children, LLC and resides with her loving family in Southbury, Connecticut.
Sue LaMarco
Charming Children Consultant
Upon graduating from Boston University's College of Communication, Ms. LaMarco decided to relocate to San Diego, CA and pursue a career in the hospitality industry. After working at the Hotel del Coronado in event and guest services for several years, she then moved back east not only to be closer to her family but to begin a new career as a teacher.
Ms. LaMarco received her teaching certification from Providence College and a subsequent Master's Degree in Education. While she truly enjoyed her work as a Language Arts teacher in the Weston, CT Public School System, Ms. LaMarco made the decision to stay at home to raise her family after her son was born. Throughout this time, she learned that the art of good manners is a life skill, giving children a sense of self and self-worth.
She currently resides in Southbury, CT with her husband and three young children, Pat, Olivia and Sofia.