It is reasonable to assume that all kids use language when they are alone together that they would never use in front of adults. So, it is rational to ask, what is the point of making kids use decent language with each other and insisting that they do not indulge in bullying in the absence of adults? There are three good reasons to enforce civility when an adult is within earshot. The first reason is about teaching the child good values. Parental rules also have value as a way of teaching the child what an adult thinks is right or wrong. The second reason is that even among nice kids, bad language and smarminess can very easily become a habit. The third reason for enforcing civility and consideration is that the way brothers and sisters treat each other while growing up can influence their emotional impressions of their relationship.