Good manners and social confidence begin at the family table.
Why are table manners so important?
Think about all the important events that take place while dining- celebrations, meetings, interviews, dates, and business networking.
As your children grow and leave the nest, you will want them to feel confident and ready for all these situations.
When good table manners are your children’s everyday good habits, they will be confidently prepared for life!
Not long ago I was a busy mom like you and I knew my kids needed to learn good table manners.
My nagging and pleading at the table didn’t work and it was certainly not fun for any of us!
So, I found a better way!
Table manners learning can be an adventure rather than something your family dreads! My family mastered table manners, and we had fun learning together! Below I share what worked for my family.
5 tried and true tips to help you teach your children good table manners
1- Set a good example.
Our children learn so much just by watching us, so if needed, brush up on your own table manners. There are many good books on the subject. My favorite resource is the 19th edition of Emily Post’s Etiquette.
2- Have a plan! Make a list of the table manners that you want your family to know and use.
You can get a free printable copy of my Family Table Manners Checklist (Get your copy here!) to help you get started. I suggest working on two table manners skills a week. Learn one at a time and check each off the list as your children master each skill.
3- Keep table manners learning fun and light-hearted.
Your family can enjoy learning together! Do your best not to nag and fuss. 🙂 Positive reminders work best.
4- Make table manners your family’s everyday good habits.
Manners aren’t just for special occasions! Your goal is to make good table manners part of your children’s habits, so this means using manners at every meal and in every setting. Good manners matter all the time- breakfast at home, a quick lunch at Subway, or a special dinner at a restaurant.
5- Set a family goal to complete your list of table manners learning by a certain date.
I set a goal to complete our table manners learning within six weeks, and we did it! Plan a celebration dinner when you complete the list. Have a nice meal at home by candlelight or go to your favorite restaurant. Dress up, take pictures, and make it a fun family memory!
Did you know that I can be your family’s table manners teacher?
Since we’re all together at home more than usual, this is the perfect time for your family to learn table manners and make good memories together.
I’ve made it super easy when you join my online course, The Family Table Manners Boot Camp,
You and your family will love it!
All the Family Table Manners Boot Camp info is here. You can get started today!Hey, moms! Get a free copy of The Family Table Manners Checklist, plus my top 5 teaching tips to help you teach your children table manners in a fun and stress-free way.
Remember, good manners and social confidence begin at the family table! I’m here to help.