Before coming to the table:
. Wash your hands before sitting down to eat. Never eat with your hands.
. Leave toys, books, and pets behind. Televisions should be switched OFF at mealtimes.
. If you have a cold or a sniffle make sure you have given your nose a good blow.
. Polite dinner conversation is a sign you are growing up. Adults may ask you what you did at school today so think of the answers you can provide.
At the table:
. When you sit down, place the napkin in your lap.
.Sit up straight and don't slouch.
. Ask politely for dishes to be passed. Never reach across the table.
. Wait until everyone is seated and served before starting to eat. If grace is said, do not eat until it is completed. Don't giggle during grace.
.Never talk while another person is talking.
. Sniffling is considered EXTREMELY rude. Leave the table and blow your nose.(Sniffling is VERY bad manners in every situation)
Eating etiquette:
.Never chew with your mouth open
. Never talk with a mouth full of food. Never put too much food in your mouth at the one time.
. Use utensils quietly without banging them on the table or plate. You should place your knife softly on the edge of the plate when not in use.
. Slice butter from the butter dish and place it on your butter plate or other plate. The butter knife should stay with the butter dish.
.Never wave or throw utensils.
.Keep your knife out of your mouth.
.Never play with your food.
.Never grab food from other people's plates or comment on what is left on their plate.
.Ask politely for seconds if you want them.
.Keep your elbows off the table.
After the meal:
.Ask to be excused from the table
.Clear your plate from the table and take it into the kitchen.
.Push your chair in before leave the table.
.Whenever in doubt as to what to do, watch a polite adult and follow their lead.