⁠Essential Table Manners Parents Should Teach Their Children

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Remember, table manners are learned over time, so be patient and consistent with your teaching. Here are 7 essential table manners parents can teach their children.

1

Mindful Eating

This includes waiting to be served before starting, taking small bites, chewing with your mouth closed, and avoiding talking.

2

Utensil Etiquette

Teach children the proper way  to hold and use a fork, knife, and spoon, demonstrate how to cut food and explain.

3

"Please" and "Thank You"

Incorporate polite phrases like "please" when requesting something and "thank you" to the cook or host.

4

Patience is a Virtue

Teach children to wait their turn for food to be passed and avoid reaching across the table.

5

Body Language Matters

Encourage good posture while sitting at the table.  Avoid slouching, placing elbows on the table, or leaning back in the chair.

6

Napkin Know-How

This includes placing it on your lap to catch crumbs and dabbing your mouth when needed.

7

Respectful Reviews

They can simply say they're not hungry for that particular dish, it's always better to focus on the positive aspects of the meal.