Tea Party Etiquette for Children

At tea parties, children can have fun while learning etiquette.

Tea parties that young children organize with guest lists populated by plush animals and dolls are an adorable part of make-believe. Real tea parties for children provide an excellent opportunity for young people to learn basic manners for simple social occasions.

Invitation Etiquette

Most formal invitations include an R.S.V.P. This is a perfect time to explain the term and its implications. Children are often intrigued by the request for a response being a French term and learn early on the importance of informing a host of their attendance plans.

Introductions

Upon arrival at the tea party, the child should shake the hand of the host. Teach her to smile and make eye contact as she extends her right hand and says hello. Demonstrate how to properly shake hands with the fingers extended and together as they touch the palm of the host's hand and then gently squeeze and shake.

At The Table

The chair should be pulled out and approached from the right for sitting. The child places the napkin in the lap with the crease facing the waist. Inform him that milk and lemon do not mix in tea. Remind him to say please when asking for out-of-reach food or condiments.

References

• ElmwoodInn.com: Children's Tea and Etiquette