Thanksgiving is tomorrow and there simply is no time for poor manners. This is the perfect time to impress grandma and grandpa by respecting them with manners! Parents, you are responsible for the manners of your children. Your example will be a lifetime of lessons to your children. One way is to start with discussing the following basic manners for kids prior to Thanksgiving Dinner…
Thanksgiving Dining Etiquette Tips
- No phones or games at the table.
- The napkin goes into your lap when the hostess places her napkin in her lap.
- Teach your child the importance of “appreciation, not expectations.” For example, teach your children to offer to help in some way or to set the table if needed.
- Teach your child to not get up from the table until everyone is finished. Discuss this before the holiday meal and practice at home.
- Teach your children situational awareness. Teach them to talk to everyone at the table. Do not have isolated pocket conversations at the table. Include everyone in conversation and make sure all are engaged with each other through eye contact as well as in verbal conversation.
- Learn how to hold utensils properly. If you would like to learn the proper methods for dining etiquette, sign up for one of my classes at The Dallas School of Etiquette.
- Unless told otherwise, do not eat until everyone is seated.
- Teach your children what appropriate table talk should be.
- Chew with your mouth closed.
- Prepare your child with appropriate dinner conversations and talking points. This can include topics such as school, sports or a favorite book. Ask about recent travels or focus on the interests of other guests. For example, if a guest has a garden, ask questions about their garden.
- Teach your children to never speak down about their family. Teach them to be kind and respectful not only to elders, but also to their siblings, cousins, etc…
Etiquette Expert Lisa Burdette Offers Courses in Manners for Kids
Dallas, Texas etiquette expert, Lisa Burdette, offers private and group etiquette lessons to help children and teenagers learn etiquette and social skills for success at school, with siblings / family members and as they prepare for college and enter adulthood.
Ready to book a session for your children? Simply use our Booking page to schedule your manners for kids session with Lisa today! The Dallas School of Etiquette also offers etiquette classes for interview skills and social graces in addition to fine dining and business etiquette sessions for teens and adults.
