How do I teach my preschooler table manners?

A preschooler may not be ready to learn the finer points of table manners, but they are old enough to understand the basics.

To start, talk with your child about table manners and why they are important. Explain that during a meal, we should be polite and well behaved so that mealtime will be fun for everyone. With constant reinforcement and examples, good behaviour at the table will soon become a habit to your child.

Here are some things that you can teach your preschooler about table manners:

•    Hand washing before a meal
•    Keeping toys away from the dinner table
•    Not to grab or throw food
•    Eating quietly without banging on the table
•    No yelling at the table
•    No running around during a meal
•    Asking to be excused when done eating
•    Helping clear the dishes from the table
•    Saying “please” and “thank you”