Embracing a Healthy Family: Dos and Don'ts of Dinner Table Etiquette

The one thing my mom was very adamant about was manners. This was a behavior she instilled in us and it definitely meant all facets of all lives. I still remember to this day her reminding us, sometimes in a not so friendly way, to get our elbows off the table. To her, dinner time manners were a big thing and maybe it was the English in her or she was just raised that way. I have no idea because my mom came over from England before I was born and I never met her family. Table etiquette is an art that is quickly becoming a part of history with today's "modern" family unfortunately. I think it's sad because it seems that more and more children are displaying a wide array of poor manners and it really does begin at home. I also wished schools would enforce it too just to help. I know my daughter's school they do and I'm very appreciative as it's not only about being polite but also about good citizenship.

When SocialMoms and Kraft Homestyle Macaroni and Cheese partnered up to challenge us bloggers on the Dos and Don'ts of Dinner Table Etiquette, I jumped as this is near and dear to my heart. Here are some of my family's:

Do not chew with your mouth open. This is my biggest pet peeve and it's something that I have to keep reinforcing with my children.
Do not talk with your mouth full. My children have a big issue with this one and my seven year old frequently chokes and I think it's due to that. My father is the same way and it drives me crazy.
Do not hold your fork continuously. Not only is it bad manners but it also encourages over eating by not taking breaks in between eating.
Do not have your elbows on the table like a truck driver. Thanks, Mom! I agree! It just looks bad.
Do not have the TV on. So many families don't interact and having the TV on only distracts.
Do take the time to make sure everyone is present. This is the time that everyone gathers and has a chance to enjoy each other. It's also a great time to eat healthier! This should be the mandatory meal of the day.
Do make sure please and thank you are part of the vocabulary. Can you imagine how embarrassing it would be to be out in public and your children don't say that? My step children do not and I'm surprised as they are teens. I think it's the basic part of etiquette that everyone should use.
Do make sure the portion taken are appropriate. It's not only rude to take too much but it's worse to waste. Ensure children understand that it's polite to share and not waste.

There are many easy ways to instill etiquette in our children. The basic ways can be taught on a daily basis with us as parents, leading the way. By teaching our children at an early age, we ensure they grow up to be aware, polite adults in all facets of their lives.

I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Kraft Homestyle Macaroni and Cheese blogging program, for a gift card worth $50. For more information on how you can participate, click here.