How to Teach Young Children Table Etiquette

Good table manners are a life skill.

Social interaction revolves heavily around food, and it's not uncommon for people to meet for the first time over a meal. Children who learn and practice proper table etiquette will possess an important life skill. Once the foundation of good manners has taken hold, you can rest easy knowing that your child will be comfortable with any dining occasion, whether it's a birthday party, a family holiday dinner or a job interview many years in the future.

Things You'll Need

• Books
• Videos

Instructions

Teaching Table Etiquette

1. 

   Read stories about good manners together.

   Discuss your expectations with your child. Ideally, this should take place away from the table to prevent what otherwise might turn into a series of corrections. You might introduce the topic by reading stories or watching videos together about good manners. Explain why table etiquette is important. Be realistic about your child's age and your demands when reviewing your family's rules of behavior at the table.

2. 

   Enjoy your meals in peace.

   Eliminate distractions during meals. Turn off the television set and put away reading materials or other diversions. Enjoy your food and each other's company. Keep table conversation light and friendly. Mealtimes are inappropriate for lectures or heated debates. Make pleasant relaxation a part of every meal.

3. 

   Show your child proper etiquette.

   Set an example. Children are keen observers and are more likely to imitate your behavior than to adhere to mere directives. If your own table manners need a tune up, this is the perfect time to break bad habits and show your child just how it's done.

4. 

   Encourage good behavior with praise.

   Use positive reinforcement. Children generally respond well to praise. Acknowledging a child's effort will entice him to continue the desired behavior. Dwelling on bad behavior or slip-ups builds resentment and an unwillingness to change.

5. 

   Children sometimes forget. Don't scold; remind.

   Use gentle one-word reminders. Children do need to be corrected from time to time. Allow your child to correct his own behavior by drawing his attention to the problem with one word instead of a lecture. For instance, "elbows" means, "Remove your elbows from the table." You may need to explain the first time you try this method, but your child will catch on quickly.

6. 

   Practice special occasions, too.

   Practice appropriate table etiquette every day. Good manners become second nature with daily use. Challenge your child occasionally using more complicated place settings and observances. Have your child help set the table and plan the menu so you may discuss in advance what the numerous utensils, bowls, and plates are used for and when.

References

• Today's Parent
• Family Education

Resources

• Manners International
• RudeBusters!