Louisville Cotillion has helped kids develop their manners for more than a century

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Louisville Cotillion has helped kids develop their manners for more than a century.

Kids, fourth through seventh grade, benefit from the instructions.

Mary Julia Kuhn, Louisville Cotillion Teacher, believes that mastering a dance step might seem like a small accomplishment, but it builds self-confidence in the student.

Also, the Manners Moments give her an opportunity to instruct children in the everyday kindnesses and considerations that make the world a better place.

It is rewarding to see them grow and change over the years.

They get lessons in Fox trot, Waltz, Swing and, Cha-Cha, plus Square dancing, line dancing, partner changes, and the Grand March.

And a chance to make new friends.

The classes are held at St. Mark's Episcopal Church at 2822 Frankfort Avenue.

This year, the classes are on alternating Fridays from mid-August through mid-February, and on alternating Saturdays from mid-February through March.

Classes last for about an hour.

Emphasis is placed on proper manners, with each class containing a "Manners Moment" zeroing in on some important aspect of manners.

Also, each class starts with a receiving line of parents/chaperones.

Usually, the gentlemen introduce their partners and themselves to each parent/chaperone; however, occasionally the ladies do the introductions.

Louisville Cotillion has around 150 students from 26 different schools (including 9 public schools).

Around 10,000 students have been involved with the program over the past 50 years.

Click here to get connected to Louisville Cotillion.