Many adults don't have good table manners (I know surprising isn't it!).  Teaching your child good table manners can help ensure he or she doesn't become one of those dreadful adults.  It is a good idea to begin introducing table manners to your child at a young age.  Even toddlers can be taught some table manners, mainly being polite during mealtimes.  When your child is a preschooler it is a good idea to really start teaching and reinforcing table manners.  It may take time, you may need to teach something over and over again, but it will pay off in the end.  Family mealtime is more enjoyable, it is easier to take your children to restaurants or other people's homes for dinner if your children know and practice good table manners. 

Table manners you can teach a toddler:

  • To wash his hands before mealtime
  • To say "Please" and "Thank you"
  • To use a fork or spoon
  • Not to grab food from another person's plate
  • Not to be rude (ie. no spitting, screaming, running around, throwing food)

Table manners you can teach a preschooler:

  • Washing hands before mealtime
  • Saying "Please" and "Thank you"
  • Using the proper utensils
  • Not to grab food from another person's plate
  • Not to be rude, no spitting, yelling or running around during meal time
  • No toys at the table
  • No banging utensils, plates, or cups
  • Asking to be excused from the table
  • Helping to clear the dishes from the table
  • Saying thank you to the person who prepared the meal
  • Eating with their mouth closed (this one may take a while)

The best way to teach good table manners is by example.  If the rest of the family exhibits good table manners your toddler or preschooler is likely to imitate those same good manners.  Be sure to introduce new manners slowly, let your child learn the new manner before adding more.  A child is less likely to take to the manner you are teaching if you are showing him a whole bunch of new things at once.  

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