“Poise” refers to a sense of graceful composure and self-assuredness in various situations. It involves maintaining an elegant, balanced and confident demeanor regardless of the circumstances.
What is Poise?
Poise is often associated with a calm and collected presence that exudes confidence and control.
Teaching poise within a manners program involves a combination of developing self-awareness, practicing mindfulness, improving physical posture and body language, and building emotional resilience. Here are some steps to help teach and cultivate poise:
Self-awareness: Help individuals become more aware of their emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations. This awareness is crucial in understanding how they react to different situations and learning to manage their responses.
Mindfulness: Encourage mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation. These techniques help individuals stay present, manage stress, and respond to situations in a composed manner.
Confidence-building: Work on building self-confidence by acknowledging and celebrating personal achievements and strengths. Set achievable goals and help individuals recognize their progress.
Positive self-talk: Teach the importance of positive self-talk and help individuals replace self-doubt with affirmations and constructive thoughts. This can significantly impact their overall self-image and poise.
Physical posture: Proper posture contributes to a sense of poise. Teach individuals how to stand and sit up straight, aligning their body to project confidence and grace. Good posture also has positive effects on mental and emotional well-being.
Body language: Educate individuals about the significance of body language in conveying poise. Encourage open and relaxed gestures, steady eye contact, and a friendly smile. Practicing these behaviors can enhance their overall presence.
Breathing techniques: Teach deep breathing techniques that help in calming the nervous system and reducing stress. Controlled breathing can be used in challenging situations to maintain composure.
Stress management: Guide individuals on effective stress management strategies such as time management, prioritization, and setting boundaries. When they feel in control of their responsibilities, it becomes easier to maintain poise.
Practice composure: Role-playing and simulated scenarios can help individuals practice maintaining poise in challenging situations. This can build their ability to respond calmly and thoughtfully even when faced with unexpected challenges.
Emotional resilience: Teach individuals to manage their emotions and respond rationally rather than react impulsively. Encourage problem-solving and a focus on solutions rather than dwelling on problems.
Social skills: Help individuals improve their communication and social skills. The ability to engage in meaningful conversations and connect with others in various situations enhances their overall poise.
Modeling: Be a role model by demonstrating poise in your own behavior. Share personal stories of how you’ve overcome challenges and maintained composure.
Remember that developing poise is an ongoing process that requires patience and practice.
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
Are you still a magazine lover like me? I absolutely love it when I get my favorites in the mail (Veranda, Frederick, Milieu, etc.).
The arrival of these treasure are always accompanied by a cup of tea and the best chocolate I can find in the moment.
Frederick Magazine (focuses on interior design) arrived over the weekend. There’s something magical about the moment a new issue lands in my mailbox.
Do You Know Which Fork to Use
Flipping through its beautifully curated pages is always a visual treat, but the January 2025 issue took my breath away. Why? A stunning feature called “Set the Table” showcased flatware in all its glory—dessert spoons, fish forks, cream spoons, and even the elusive sauce spoon!
For someone passionate about manners and etiquette, it was pure joy. Each utensil on the beautifully styled table had a purpose, and seeing them celebrated reminded me why I love what I do: helping others navigate these seemingly small but significant details with confidence and ease.
Forks, Spoons, and the Joy of Knowing What to Do
Picture this: you’re seated at a special dinner, and the table is a dazzling display of forks, spoons, and knives. For many, the sight of multiple utensils can feel intimidating, but as etiquette experts, we know that it’s an invitation to explore the art of dining.
This is where your role as an etiquette expert truly shines. Imagine guiding others to feel the same ease and excitement you do, helping them know exactly which fork to use for the salad or what that tiny spoon is meant for. By teaching children and adults these timeless skills, you’re not just sharing knowledge—you’re inspiring confidence and grace.
Frederick Magazine: A Must-Read for Aspiring Etiquette Experts
The January 2025 issue of Frederick Magazine is a must-have for anyone passionate about etiquette and table settings. From dessert spoons to fish forks, it’s a feast for the eyes and a source of inspiration. You can find it on newsstands now or order a copy online to see the feature for yourself.
Turn Your Passion into Purpose
If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming certified as an etiquette expert and starting a business teaching manners to children, now is the time to act. Just like each piece of flatware has its purpose, you have a calling to make a difference in the lives of others. Whether it’s teaching children how to hold a fork or empowering them with confidence at the table, your passion can spark lasting change.
Start your journey today and join a community of like-minded individuals who share your love for etiquette and elegance.
Let’s make the world a little more polished, one fork at a time!
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
Are you ready to turn your passion into a purposeful, profitable business in 2025?
Teaching children’s etiquette isn’t just about table manners—it’s about giving the next generation confidence, empathy, and poise for life.
And yes, you can make this your dream career.
Here’s Your Game Plan to Launch a Thriving Business and Build Your Dream
Step 1: Dream Big, but Start Smart Every inspiring journey starts with a spark. What would your life look like if you were teaching meaningful skills to children, connecting with families, and creating impact? Now, let’s map it out. Becoming certified to teach children’s etiquette ensures you have the tools, credibility, and confidence to succeed. Certification is your golden ticket to turning a dream into a polished reality.
Step 2: Your Certification = Your Confidence Parents today are looking for experts who can teach their children how to navigate life with kindness and grace. Being certified positions you as the go-to professional in your community. You’ll have the credibility to stand out and the resources to run your business with style. Think chic lesson plans, polished presentations, and engaging activities that leave a lasting impression.
Step 3: Plan Your Launch A successful business doesn’t happen by chance—it happens by design. Dedicate January to your research phase. Who are the families in your area? What schools or organizations could you partner with? February is for setting goals and building your business structure. March? That’s when you go live. Imagine hosting your first etiquette workshop with a room full of eager students and delighted parents.
Step 4: Make It Personal The secret to success? Authenticity. Bring your personality into your business. Your passion and enthusiasm will inspire trust and admiration. Lean into what makes you unique and use it to connect with your audience. Every lesson you teach becomes an extension of your story.
Step 5: Market with Flair You’ve got the skills, the etiquette certification, and the drive. Now it’s time to shine. Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are perfect for showcasing your business. Post behind-the-scenes peeks, highlight your workshops, and share quick etiquette tips parents can implement immediately. Pro tip: Use bright, bold visuals and fun captions to create a brand that’s as irresistible as a perfectly tied bow.
Ready to Begin? Let’s Make 2025 Your Year!
There’s no better time to start than now. By choosing to become certified, you’re not just investing in a business; you’re investing in your community, in the next generation, and in yourself.
Click below to learn more about how to get certified and start your journey today.
Here is a FREE Guide to Help YOU Start a Business Teaching Manners to Children
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
Teaching children how to console someone who is grieving is a meaningful opportunity to develop their empathy and emotional intelligence. In light of the recent LA fires, many children may encounter friends or adults who have experienced a profound loss, such as losing a home. This is an important moment to guide children on what to say and how to support others during difficult times.
Here is practical guidance on teaching children aged 6-12 how to navigate these sensitive moments with kindness, sincerity, and confidence.
Why This Lesson Matters
Children may feel unsure or awkward when trying to comfort someone who is grieving. Providing them with the right tools builds:
Empathy: Understanding and sharing another person’s feelings.
Emotional Intelligence: Recognizing and responding appropriately to the emotions of others.
Confidence: Empowering children to handle emotional situations with grace.
This lesson also teaches lifelong manners and fosters a culture of care and connection, especially in times of crisis.
What to Teach Children to Say
Here are some simple, meaningful phrases that children can use. They are age-appropriate and help convey empathy and support:
To an Adult Who Is Grieving:
“I’m really sorry for your loss.”
“I’m thinking about you and hope you feel better soon.”
“Is there anything I can do to help?”
To a Friend Who Has Lost Their Home:
“I’m so sorry about your home. That must be really hard.”
“If you want to talk, I’m here to listen.”
“Would you like to play or hang out? Sometimes it helps to do something fun.”
To a Friend Who Has Lost a Loved One:
“I’m really sorry about what happened. I’m thinking of you.”
“It’s okay to feel sad. I’m here if you want to talk.”
“I care about you. You’re not alone.”
The Role of Body Language and Tone
Children’s words are powerful, but their actions and tone enhance sincerity. Teach them to:
Make Eye Contact: Show they are paying attention and genuinely care.
Use a Gentle Tone of Voice: Speak softly to convey compassion.
Show Warmth Through Body Language: A simple touch on the shoulder, a hug (if appropriate), or standing beside someone can provide comfort.
Why This Lesson Builds Empathy
Grief is a universal experience, and by teaching children to recognize and respond to it, you help them develop essential life skills and manners. When children learn to offer support:
They become more attuned to others’ feelings.
They gain confidence in handling emotional situations.
They foster stronger, more meaningful relationships.
Final Thoughts
Guiding children to console someone who is grieving is one of the most meaningful lessons in etiquette and emotional intelligence. Simple, heartfelt words paired with kind actions can make a lasting impact. By teaching children these skills, you equip them to navigate life’s challenges with grace, compassion, and confidence.
Let’s work together to raise a generation that leads with empathy.
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
Why Every Aspiring Etiquette Expert Should Read This Book
Let’s face it: navigating the world of children’s manners and social skills can feel overwhelming. But Karen Le Billon’s book, French Kids Eat Everything, is here to change that—and trust me, it’s a delightful read.
Over the holidays, I read this book and could not put it down.
I especially loved reading how the French view snacking! I am so guilty! Do you snack in-between meals? I do and want to stop it. After reading this book, you might be inspired to stop snacking as well.
One of the most captivating lessons from the book is how French schools use lunchtime as a daily manners class. Forget cafeteria chaos—the French serve hot, thoughtfully prepared meals with no room for picky eaters. Why? Because:
No Choices, No Fuss: Children are served a single meal. No alternative options mean kids learn to try—and love—a variety of foods.
Etiquette at the Table: Teachers and lunchroom staff model polite behavior, teaching children how to eat properly and converse respectfully.
Time to Savor: Meals aren’t rushed; they’re a time to connect and practice gratitude.
As a certified etiquette trainer, these principles can inspire your lesson plans. Imagine teaching children to embrace new foods, engage in conversation, and develop impeccable table manners—all while making mealtime a joy.
Table Manners: A French Priority
French families value the art of dining, and French Kids Eat Everything is brimming with takeaways you can use in your training programs:
No Devices at the Table: Meals are for connection, not screens. This aligns beautifully with teaching mindfulness and respect.
Structured Meal Times: French children don’t snack all day; they have a designated treat, the goûter, in the afternoon. You can use this concept to help families create healthy, structured eating habits.
Respect for Food: Children learn to appreciate food, from how it’s prepared to how it’s enjoyed. This builds gratitude—a cornerstone of good manners.
Why This Book Belongs in Your Etiquette Certification Toolkit
If you’re building a business teaching manners, this book is a goldmine of ideas for lesson plans. Here’s how it can elevate your programs:
Lesson Inspiration: Teach families the importance of shared meals and mindful dining.
Turnkey Strategies: Incorporate French-style mealtime etiquette into your classes.
Relatable Examples: Use the book’s stories to captivate your audience and make your workshops engaging and memorable.
Become Certified and Transform Families
For those pursuing their dream of teaching children social skills and manners, French Kids Eat Everything is a chic and practical resource.
As you build your business, this book will empower you to help families foster deeper connections, better habits, and lifelong skills.
Add French Kids Eat Everything to your etiquette library today. It’s more than a book—it’s a guide to creating meaningful lessons that transform the way children and families approach mealtime.
Get certified, turn your passion into purpose, and inspire the next generation to live with grace and gratitude. This book is your perfect companion for the journey.
Thank you for joining our manners movement.
Here is a FREE Guide to Help YOU Start a Business Teaching Manners to Children
If you are looking to start immediately and save money on travel and time, then this is your best option.You choose the dates of our trainings. Most choose to have their sessions once a week, others twice. This is a “live” and private training. It is NOTself-guided.
PRIVATE Training. That’s right, we meet in person, the two of us and our focus is completely on your business. Click the image above or follow the button below to learn more and to see a list of cities available for your training.
I had the absolute joy of joining Tiffany Blackmon on her podcast, My So-Called Fabulous, to talk all things etiquette—from the magic of meaningful conversation to decoding table settings with a fun BMW trick (yes, it’s a thing!).
If you want to go directly to the part of the podcast where I show you how to set a formal setting, go to time stamp 29:51 on the You Tube video.
The Importance of Teaching Manners to Children
We dove into how teaching children manners builds confidence, fosters connection, and creates a sense of community—especially in a world where smartphones often take center stage. And because we all know etiquette isn’t just for the dining table, we explored why these skills are just as vital in the workplace and beyond.
This lively, insightful conversation is full of tips and inspiration for anyone passionate about teaching manners and social skills. Whether you’re already certified or dreaming of starting your journey, this episode will leave you energized and ready to make a lasting impact.
Lisa Richey provides etiquette programs to businesses, schools, and individuals.
