Thanksgiving Manners

Etiquette Is 4 Me has some great tips for teaching and having manners at Thanksgiving:

Thanksgiving, rather than focusing on the turkey, the in-laws or the obnoxious behavior of your guests or their children, focus on what really counts: your relationships and the opportunity you have to spend time together.

The Etiquette is 4 Me philosophy is based on "Treat everyone with politeness, even those who are rude to you - not because they are nice, but because you are!"

If you follow these tips, you are sure to get through the meal with confidence and ease. (For parents, remember you are the example for your children):

• Don’t try to solve other people’s problems. A statement or opinion does not necessarily require a response nor is it a request for advice. Unless someone specifically asks for advice, don’t give it! Ask yourself, "Is the dinner table the time to deal with problems?" The answer is no. 
• You can’t control other people’s actions, only your own (and your children*). If a member of your family has a reputation for being annoying or obnoxious, don’t jump in the swamp with the alligators. Perpetuating rudeness or bad behavior by being rude back solves nothing and doesn’t set a good example for your children. Sometimes, it is a good idea to take a look in the mirror and make sure your own behavior is above reproach. 
• Controversial subjects are best avoided if they are going to lead to arguments. Try to keep things light and celebratory. Remember that a sense of humor is your best asset when the going gets tough.
• *Coach your children beforehand as to the behavior you expect and what you want them to do such as helping with chores, dinner, babysitting and others. Teach them visiting and table manners. 
• And above all else, keep a sense of gratitude and be thankful. 

Tips To Express Gratitude:

• Smile and say thank you.
• Tell a loved one you love them.
• Hug a friend.
• Write thank you notes.
• Visit a shut-in or someone in the hospital.
• Call a friend, just to say hello.
• Spend time with an elderly person.
• Tell your boss/workers you appreciate his or her support 

Remember to thank to everyone who make your life easy, babysitters, cleaners, doctors, mail man, friends, parents... just say "thank you! You are very important in my life!

14 Table Manners Every Child Should Know
The following is a list of table manners that your child should have a good grasp of by age six:

• Wash their hands and face before sitting down to the table.
• Sit down in their proper seat and put their napkin in their lap.
• Wait to begin eating until everyone is seated and has been served. Many families wait until an adult gives permission to start eating.
• Stay seated in their seats without wiggling in their chairs, going under the table, or getting up and down.
• Say, "Excuse Me," and ask permission to leave the table.
• Elbows do not belong on the table.
• Mouths should stay closed while chewing and pieces should be bite sized.
• "May I please" and "Thank you" should be used when children would like food and never reach across the table.
• Participate in the conversation during dinner and no interruptions when other people are talking.
• Slurping, burping, squealing, singing, humming are all sounds that are not to be made at the table.
• It is never kind or polite to make negative comments about what is being served for dinner.
• Before getting up at the end of the meal say, "May I please be excused?"
• Ask if adults would like them to clear their dinner plate.
• Thank the cook. 

Preparing children for adulthood starts the moment the baby is placed in the arms of the mother. Teaching children to use good table manners is a wonderful gift that will serve them well throughout their entire lives. Parents will be proud that their children are using the good manners that they have taught them, and more importantly children will be polished and refined and capable of being comfortable in any situation.

A wonderful and value gift for the ones you love could be a gift card for our Etiquettes classes, parents and children will appreciate.

Etiquette Is 4 Me has a special deal for you! Watch my Good Things Utah segment, and everyone who mentions "they agree that good manners is one of the best investment for your children" and that they heard it on Good Things Utah, they will receive a FREE evaluation for their children ($70 value) and 10% off the classes that will start in January.


Learn more about Etiquette Classes for kids on the Etiquette Is 4 Me website.