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I am not from the South. The manners and etiquette there seem to come second nature to many people. I am from Kansas, where people are polite, but no-nonsense. I had the pleasure recently of conversing with someone from Alabama and she gave me some wonderful advice about how she taught and emphasized good manners to her children. We talked about how manners are sadly lacking in a lot of children in today’s world. She had some beautiful pearls of wisdom on manners. This led me on my own quest for rules of etiquette for children. I have found so many wonderful things, that I have decided to do a series. Consider politeness at home to be 1) a sign of respect to the family and 2) good practice for good behavior outside the home.

Here are some rules for politeness at the table.

• Children should come to the table with clean hands. This is not only respectful, but hygienic.
• The table should be clear and free of toys or books during mealtime. This is a great responsibility for even the youngest children.
• A napkin should go on the lap.
• Each member of the household (guests included) should be seated before the first bite is taken.
• Please and thank you are never more appropriate than at the table. It is a great chance to practice using these very polite phrases.
• Mouths should remain closed while chewing. This includes conversation.
• Eating should never be a race.
• Diners should be seated until everyone is finished with the meal. Then asked to be excused.
• Everyone should be responsible for their own dish, silverware, and cup. These should be removed to the sink or dishwasher.
• Although moms and dads are more than happy to feed their families, children should not take the privilege of a good meal for granted. Compliments and gratitude should be offered to the chef (or to the microwaver of the chicken nuggets).

What rules does your family practice at the dinner table?

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