TEACHING KIDS TABLE MANNERS

It is very important for your kids to learn table manners. This might be a tough job because they wont like to be governed at the time when they eat but teach them when they are young. Tell your kids that table manners are more than about proper eating; it's about being kind and considerate of others. Also, tell them although you know that they are smart and nice, other people will judge them on how they appear. Having proper table manners is one way people judge others, and they wouldn't want people to think that they are ill mannered and don't have etiquettes, do they?

Whether in a restaurant or at home, here are some basic table manners to teach kids:

1. Eat with a fork unless the food is meant to be eaten with fingers.

2. Don't stuff your mouth full of food, it looks unpleasant, and they could choke sometimes.

3. Chew with your mouth closed and don't make chomping sound. No one wants to see food being chewed up or hearing it being chomped on. This includes no talking with your mouth full.

4. Don't make any rude comments about any food being served. It will hurt someone's feelings.

5. Always say thank you when served something. Shows appreciation.

6. If the meal is not buffet style, then wait until everyone is served before eating. It shows consideration.

7. Eat slowly, don't gobble up the food.

8. Don't reach over someone's plate for something; ask for the item to be passed to you.

9. Don't pick anything out of your teeth, it's disgusting. If it bothers you that bad, excuse yourself and go to the restroom to pick.

10. Always use a napkin to dab your mouth, which should be on your lap when not in use. Remember, dab your mouth only. Don't wipe your face or blow your nose with a napkin. Excuse yourself from the table and go the restroom to do those things.

11. When eating at someone's home or as a guest of someone at a restaurant, always thank the host and tell them how delicious it was, even if it wasn't. Show your appreciation.