Table Manners Your Six-Year-Old Should Know
Children do not learn proper table manners overnight. It takes years of repetition and consistent training to refine their skills. Parents have eighteen years to help shape their child’s table manners so there is plenty of time to patiently work with them. Expect lots of errors and missteps. Use gentle guidance and never scold or embarrass. Just kindly correct and continue eating.
The following is a list of a table manners that your child should have a good grasp of by age six:
- Wash their hands and face before sitting down to the table.
- Sit down in their proper seat and put their napkin in their lap.
- Wait to begin eating until everyone is seated and has been served. Many families wait until an adult gives permission to start eating.
- Stay seated in their seats without wiggling in their chairs, going under the table, or getting up and down.
- Elbows do not belong on the table.
- Mouths should stay closed while chewing and pieces should be bite sized.
- “May I please” and “Thank you” should be used when children would like food.
For more information about our upcoming children's etiquette classes, please visit our website at www.itsallaboutetiquette.com
