A Kid’s Guide to Table Manners on Thanksgiving
by Prescolaire Early Learning Academy | November 8, 2024
Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together, enjoy delicious food, and make lasting memories. For kids, it’s also a great opportunity to learn and practice table manners in a fun, family-friendly setting. Teaching kids simple dining etiquette can help them feel more comfortable at the table and make holiday gatherings more enjoyable for everyone. Here’s a guide to some easy-to-follow table manners for kids to use this Thanksgiving!
Start with a Thank You
Remind children to thank the person who prepared the meal before they start eating. A simple “Thank you for making this food!” or “This looks so yummy!” goes a long way in showing appreciation.
Tip: Encourage kids to say “please” and “thank you” when asking for or receiving food, reinforcing polite language.
Wait for Everyone to Be Seated
Teaching children to wait until everyone is seated before they start eating helps create a respectful atmosphere around the table. Let them know it’s polite to wait for the family to be ready so everyone can enjoy the meal together.
Hold Utensils Properly
Teach kids how to hold their fork and knife properly, as it makes eating easier and shows good manners. Practice before Thanksgiving to give them confidence, especially if they’re trying to cut their own food for the first time.
Tip:
A Kid’s Guide to Table Manners on Thanksgiving
Use Napkins
Show kids how to place their napkin in their lap at the start of the meal and use it to wipe their hands and mouth. Remind them not to use their sleeve, as the napkin is there to keep them clean!
Take Small Bites & Chew Quietly
Explain that taking small bites and chewing with their mouths closed helps them eat politely and prevents talking with food in their mouths. This one may need a bit of practice, but kids can get the hang of it with gentle reminders.
Pass Food Carefully
Teach kids to say “please pass the [dish]” instead of reaching across the table. Show them how to pass food politely to their neighbors and ask for help when they can’t reach something.
Ask to Be Excused
When kids finish their meal, remind them to ask to be excused from the table instead of leaving abruptly. This reinforces respect for the family meal and lets them show gratitude for the meal they enjoyed.
Help Clean Up
Encouraging kids to help clear their plates and tidy up the table shows respect for the effort that went into preparing the meal. Even small acts like taking their plate to the kitchen can make a big difference.
Make Thanksgiving Special
Teaching kids table manners is a wonderful way to boost their confidence and social skills. At Prescolaire Early Learning Center, we believe that every learning moment counts, whether it’s developing academic skills or practicing real-life etiquette. Our programs focus on helping children grow in every way—from academic learning to social etiquette.Ready to support your child’s learning journey beyond Thanksgiving? Explore our programs at Prescolaire Early Learning Center and see how we make learning a fun, enriching experience!
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