Don’t just point out mistakes; praise your child’s effort as well! This will encourage your child to keep at it.
How are your kids doing when it come to social graces?
A child practicing table manners brings in a more appetizing mood to everyone having a meal together. However, table etiquettes are not just about eating properly; it’s about being kind, considerate and respectful to others on the same table.
It’s Never too Early to Start
Parenting experts confirm that good table manners can actually begin as soon as your child sits in a high chair. Starting early would make manners seep in easier. However, keep it realistic. He won’t be able to remember which fork to use for dessert, but he’s ready for the basics.
Lead by Example
Practice what your preach. It is imperative that you model what it is to be good mannered, as young children imitate everything they see and hear. Use this opportunity to teach your child what good table manners are, by practicing manners on the table. Also, make time to eat together more often. The more time spent together, the more opportunities he gets to imitate you!
Basic Table Manners for Minors
What makes up manners differ from family to family. However, here is a list of the commonly expected ones:
Approach dining manners as a game! How about dressing up once a week, and serving a special meal and expect more formal manners?
1. Wash up! Make him wash his hands and face, before and after every meal.
2. No toys, no pets. Never allow him to bring toys and pets to the table. Distraction while eating can also cause indigestion.
3. Sit up straight. Make sure he sits straight without his elbows on the table.
4. Saying “please” and “thank you.” This also goes beyond the table. It shows respect and appreciation to the people sharing the meal together.
5. Chew with mouth closed. Educate your child to chew bite size food with the mouth closed. Talking with the mouth full can sometimes cause one to choke.
6. Excuse me? Asking to be excused at the end of the meal shows respect to those who are still eating. Also ask your child to thank the person who prepared the meal.
7. Wait a minute… Wait for everyone to be seated at the table before he starts having his.
8. Please pass me the salt? Instead of reaching over someone’s plate for something, teach your child to ask for it politely.
9. How’s the meal? Never give bad comments about any food served. It might hurt someone’s feelings. Instead teach your child to diplomatically answer why he didn’t finish his meal or why he left out the sprouts. “The meal was yummy, but I don’t think I can eat anymore.”
Good table manners become increasingly difficult to teach and cultivate as children grow older. Therefore, before your little one outgrows listening to you, start cultivating good manners at an early age! It is key that parents be supportive and consistent when instilling life lessons such as these. After all, good manners go beyond the table.
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