Toddlers and preschoolers who can self-feed can easily join the rest of the family at mealtimes. However, it is important that they parents teach them some basic dining etiquette to make mealtimes a relaxed and happy affair. Here are some easy ways to teach table manners to a toddler or preschooler.
Set the Right Example to Teach Table Manners
Toddlers learn best by example. Seeing adults around them eat properly at the table is what will motivate and inspire them to do the same. This means sitting down together and showing a toddler how to use a napkin or how to ask for something without yelling across the table. Use “Please” and “Thank you” when talking with other adults or even with your toddler. For instance, hearing a parent say “Mary, please pass me the gravy” will teach your toddler more than simply telling him or her that saying “please” is a good thing.
Teach Toddlers Table Manners by Making Mealtimes a Ritual
Most toddlers love the predictability of ritual and routine. Make at least one meal a family meal and create a ritual out of it. Set the table properly. Ask your toddler to help you with setting the table and let him handle the non-breakable items, such as napkins or placemats. Play some soft, soothing music. Keep conversation light and discuss the happenings of the day. Do keep your toddler involved and ask or answer questions, politely and promptly. Ignoring a toddler is only going to lead to a scream fest.
Use Toddler-Friendly Cutlery and Crockery
An important part of teaching dining etiquette to a preschooler is using the right tools. In this case, it means the right cutlery and crockery. Invest in toddler-friendly cutlery, which has rounded edges and is easier to handle than the more grown-up forks and spoons. Also, buy a few unbreakable plates and glasses and use these along with a waterproof placemat to protect the tablecloth from spills and stains.
Using the right cutlery and crockery will not only make eating easier for a toddler, it will also help with the ritual aspect of mealtimes. Get your toddler excited about eating from his own plate or drinking from a special glass and watch how nicely he’ll behave. Check out this really cute and practical toddler dining set from Amazon.
Be Firm but Not Rigid When Teaching PreschoolersDining Etiquette
Setting a few ground rules for mealtimes will also help teach toddlers table manners. Make sure that the ground rules apply to everyone in the family, including older siblings.
- No yelling, shouting or screaming for food or at other family members.
- Saying “Please”, “Thank you” and “Excuse me.”
- Eating with one’s mouth closed and not chewing or burping loudly.
- Not talking with food in the mouth.
While it is important to be firm with these rules for dining, it is also important not to be rigid and remember that a toddler is after all, a toddler. So be prepared for the occasional tantrum or difficult dinner, but do remember to follow the same rules and ritual for mealtimes on the next occasion. With some time, lots of patience and love and a little effort, toddlers and preschoolers will surely learn table manners and look forward to their mealtimes. Meanwhile, here are some more ideas to make meals with toddlers fun and enjoyable.
Photo credit: tiffanywashko
