When it comes to teaching kids manners, every aspect of their life is affected. Teaching them to mind their P’s and Q’s is a small piece of a big polite puzzle. Since there are so many things to discuss when it comes to manners, I decided to focus on table etiquette. After all, they are at the table (more than) 3 times a day! Of course it’s silly to think about teaching a Munchkin who is just learning to use a spoon on her own that it is proper to hold the fork in her left hand. However, they will need to learn someday, so here are the Top 10 Common Dining Mistakes.
1. Proper Use of Cutlery. Silverware is not meant to be waved about as if trying to create a magic spell that will turn those peas into candy. Also, once a piece of cutlery is picked up, 
it should not touch the table again. Teach kids to rest their silverware on the plate between bites.
2. Napkins.Yet another thing not meant to be waved. Unless a picky eater is surrendering from stubbornness. Napkins belong on the lap, and should be used to dab (not wipe!) the face. When the meal is finished, loosely place the napkin to the left of the plate.
3. Chew chew. And don’t talk. Not with food in the mouth! Enough said.
4. Appearance. Where do those elbows go? Not on the table. Unsure of where to put your hands? On your lap. And sit up straight.
5. Bread buttering. I learned something new when I read this one! don’t butter the entire piece of bread. Instead, tear the slice up into bite-size bits and butter them as they are to be eaten.
6. Slow down. This is good for proper etiquette and good digestion. So many studies have shown that eating slowly can help one to fill up and not over-eat, making it a good idea to not rush through a meal. Enjoy your food.
7. Pick Pick. If there is something in your teeth, never pick it out at the table. If the rest of the meal just can’t be enjoyed because you are going bonkers from the thing in your teeth, excuse yourself to the bathroom and get it out.
8. Lipstick. This won’t apply to kids for quite a while, but as parents, it is our duty to set a good example. Someday, that little girl will remember how mommy did it and echo our behavior. Don’t apply it at the table. If lipstick has been freshly applied and you don’t have a blotting tissue, grab a cocktail napkin before leaving a lipstick smudge on stemwear and silverware.
9. Smoking is a no-no. Again, something we don’t need to worry about our kids doing right away, but should be aware of the example we are setting. Personally, I don’t think anyone should smoke around children. Not ever.
10. Purses, Briefcases, Hats, Gloves, Keys, Etc. Off the table. If it’s not related to eating, it doesn’t belong on the dining surface.
Image Source: flickr.com/photos/juhansonin
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