Originally published in the Suburban Journal
by Katie Antalick
staff writer
Consistent follow-up and gentle reminders have propelled Hila Tamez Schryver into the etiquette spotlight.
Taking note that manners and common courtesy are seemingly become passe, the Hillsboro resident took her experience at the Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. in the 1960s to form Schryer Enterprises, which specializes in everything from customer service to proper telephone etiquette in both English and Spanish.
Although that company was her initial corporate endeavor, her work as "Ms. Hilda" has possibly made the most difference.
Her book, "Ms. Hilda's Adventures Into the World of Manners," attempts to introduce children to a more polite society.
In the book, "Ms. Hilda," a woman with a firm grip on politeness and an extensive collection of hats, shows the wrong and right way to behave.
Scrhyver said that it is important to show the incorrect way first for several reasons.
"It shows children what they are doing is wrong," she said. "Some children don't realize what they are doing is wrong. By showing the correct wayto do it last, the children end on a positive note. It also shows for gentle reminders and follow-up."
The illustrations by Marcy Uphoff Effinger also demonstrate the smiles and friendships that children can receive from minding their manners.
Before "Ms. Hilda" makes a personal appearance in a classroom, Schryver said that the teacher will receive a packet of information, including coloring sheets, to prepare the children for her visit.
"I have a process for the school system so they have references to prepare the children," she said. "That way they have preparation before I come."
During a visit, Schryver said that children are mostly familiar with her from the teacher's preparation beforehand. After the lesson, Schryver said she asks the children to file in line and tell her what manner the child is going to work on.
If that child successfully works on his or her manners, Schryver said "Ms. Hilda" will give a personalized bookmark to that child that will remind him or her to keep up the good habit.
Even if a parent purchases a book, Schryver said that "Ms. Hilda" will still communicate with the child with a little help from parents.
"In the book there is a sheet to fill out," she said. "That can either be mailed or emailed to me and I will mail a personalized bookmark to that child."
Schryver said she doesn't automatically include a bookmark because the child should work toward the reward.
Two popular things that "Ms. Hilda" has, according to Schryver, is her bag which she calls "Mundito," which means "loving little world" in Spanish, and the numerous hats she keeps in that bag.
The reason why "Ms. Hilda" wears so many hats is because each hat correlates to a behavior. The visual reminder then is not only whimsical but also a memory aid.
The English version of the book is available for purchase over the internet at mshilda.com or at the Borders Books and Music Cafe in Creve Couer.
If purchased through the website, the book is $9.99 plus shopping and handling.
Schryver is working on a calendar that will have goals and achievements for the child to complete.
For more information on her company, visit schryverenterprises.com.
| Schryver Enterprises, LLC |
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Corporate Website: |
