According to the Babycenter website, you can begin to teach children table manners as early as 2 years old. Good table manners can do more than just make meal times more enjoyable. They can also teach your child how to be polite in all aspects of her life.
Step 1
Explain table rules to your children, such as saying "please" and chewing with your mouth closed. The ParentsConnect website suggests giving your child at least one week to learn how to use the new rules.
Step 2
Use proper manners yourself, allowing your child to emulate you. Because children learn by example, the Babycenter website explains that this can be an effective way to teach table manners.
Step 3
Refrain from arguing or lecturing your child about table manners. According to the FamilyEducation website, turning dinner into an unhappy event can discourage manner use.
Step 4
Praise your child for using manners at the dinner table, but don't overuse the praise. The Babycenter website explains that this can make your child expect to be the center of attention at every meal.
Step 5
Explain to your child that any bad meal manners are considered rude. Do not give him a second serving if he refuses to say please. Or consider ignoring the behavior. Your child might stop bad manners on his own when he realizes he can't elicit a reaction.
Tips and Warnings
- Concentrate on simple table manners as first, such as saying "thank you." The Babycenter discourages focusing on formalities such as which utensil to use and where to place your napkin. Good table manners are about being polite and considerate of all those seated around the table.
- The FamilyEducation website warns against calling your child names such as "slob." Not only can this damage his self-esteem, it can make him rebel against using proper manners. Instead, state practical reasons for manner use. For example, explain that utensils are used so the hands won't get dirty. Some meal rules should not be enforced, such as eating everything off your plate. This can encourage bad eating habits and promote obesity. Instead, the Babycenter website says to serve your child small portions and allow him to stop eating when he is full.
