Today's Tip for Families

[En español]

07-05-2025

Table Manners Teach Useful Lessons

Children need social skills to navigate relationships with classmates and teachers at school. But home is a great place to practice them!

Good table manners, for example, are more than old-fashioned habits. They're ways of showing respect for others—and extending family time at meals. Just what are kids capable of doing (or not doing) at the table? If you explain rules and set a good example, your child can probably:

• Stay seated throughout the meal. It helps when conversation is interesting and includes everyone. Fun activities, such as having all family members name the best part of their day, can help.
• Resist insults, including, "Gross," and "I hate that." Saying, "No thank you," is more appropriate. Ask your child to compliment tasty dishes.
• Master basic skills. For example, it's polite to place used flatware on the plate and ask to be excused.

Brought to you by:

Wills Elementary School
Lindsay Elliot, Principal

[School Success Ideas for Families]

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