Is
it still improper to have your elbows on the table when you are eating?
I
have two boys 7 & 10, who seem to think I’m crazy. Any other table
manner advice you can give me would be helpful. I want them to have
somewhat decent table manners.
It’s
ok to put your elbows on the table if you’re not actually eating.
But, if you’re eating, then only rest the forearms on the table. This
helps balance and will keep the temptation of putting their elbows
on the table away.
Tell
your kids that table manners are more than about proper eating, it’s
about being kind and considerate of others. Also tell them although
you know they are smart and nice, other people will judge them
on how they behave. Having proper table manners is one way people
judge others, and they wouldn’t want people to think they are barbarians,
do they?
Whether
in a restaurant or in a home, here are some basic table manners to
teach kids:
1.
Eat with a fork unless the food is meant to be eaten with fingers.
2.
Don’t stuff your mouth full of food.
3.
Chew with your mouth closed. No one wants to be grossed out by seeing
food being chewed up or hearing it being chomped on. This includes no
talking with your mouth full.
4.
Don’t make any rude comments about any food being served. It will hurt
someone’s feelings. Just say "No thank you" if your offered
something you don’t like.
5
Always say thank you when served something. Shows appreciation.
6.
Wait until everyone is served and at least one adult has begun eating
before beginning to eat. It shows consideration.
7.
When eating rolls, break off a piece of bread then butter just that
piece before eating it. Don’t bring the whole piece of bread to your
mouth or butter the entire roll.
8.
Don’t reach over someone’s plate for something, ask for the item to
be past to you.
9.
Don’t correct other people’s manners when you’re at the table. It will
hurt their feelings.
10.
When you’re finished put the utensils you used together on the top
of your plate, not your napkin.
If
you have questions regarding etiquette, send them by e-mail to [email protected].
For more information on instruction of proper manners, call Mrs.
Evelyn at: (310) 832-2334