Dinner Table Setting

In our busy lives, it can be hard to get together around a table to share a meal. Eating dinner together as a family has been shown to have positive effects on all family members. There is more opportunity for communication, family bonding and even better health because of home cooked meals. Setting the dinner table is a task that even children can perform. Teaching them how to set the table helps them contribute to the family meal. It isn't complicated, and it is an important skill for anyone to have.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Plates
• Fork
• Knife
• Spoon
• Napkins
• Glasses

1. Place the plates on the table. Put them about 2 inches from the edge. If there is a design on the plate, be sure it is facing in the right direction.

2. Put the fork to the left of the plate. It should rest about a half inch from the plate. Place a folded napkin underneath the fork. You can use paper or cloth napkins. If using cloth napkins with napkin rings, the napkin can be placed on the plate or to the left of the fork.

3. Place the knife to the right of the plate. The blade of the knife should face the plate.

4. Place the teaspoon to the right of the knife. The bowl of the spoon should be facing up.

5. The drinking glass should be placed above the knife. It should be placed about 2 inches away from the plate.

6. Put salt and pepper on the table. These should be in the center of the table. If you have two sets of salt and pepper shakers, one can be placed at each end of the table.

Tips & Warnings

• A tablecloth and place mats are a nice addition to a table setting.
• You can also add a centerpiece to the table for decoration.