I am often asked, “how to teach children table manners”. Table manners are very important as they provide an invaluable level of confidence for children.
It is amazing how a six-year-old child can charm and mesmerize you from a distance. We were in Madrid a few years ago at The Westin Hotel waiting patiently for our table. I looked over at a cute little girl having breakfast. She was intensely involved with consuming her eggs and bacon. This little one ate beautifully and elegantly in fine continental style. Obviously, her parents took her out to eat often and traveled with her. She handled her knife and fork with ease and grace. I couldn’t help but smile and point her out to my husband. We tried not to stare!
What’s the difference between dining styles, and is it acceptable to use the continental (or European) style in the United States? Will eating this way be seen as incorrect? And, most importantly, which style should I teach my children?
Below, you’ll find answers to commonly asked questions about introducing different dining styles to children.
American vs. Continental Dining Styles: Should Children Know the Difference?
What is the difference between American and Continental style dining?
European style is where you keep the knife in your right hand and eat with the fork in your left (for those who are right-handed). The fork is lifted to your mouth with the tines down.
In American style, you cut with the knife in your right hand and the fork in your left. After cutting, you put your knife at the top of your plate, blade facing toward you, switch your fork to your right hand, and the left hand goes in your lap while enjoying your bite.
The tines of the fork face up as the food goes into your mouth. With both styles, while cutting, remember to cut only one bite-sized portion at a time. For young children, it is acceptable to cut the entire chicken breast (or steak, etc.) at one time to make mealtime easier. However, this is not the case for adults.
Which style do I teach children and at what age should I introduce both?
By age 10 and beyond, children should be familiar with both the American and European dining styles.
While they may feel more comfortable with the American style simply because it’s what they’re used to seeing, it’s essential that students understand that the European style is equally acceptable, even in the United States.
Explain that they may grow up and have opportunities to travel internationally.
Knowing both styles helps them recognize European dining as a valid option, so if they observe others eating this way, they’ll understand it’s an appropriate and respectable choice—not something “odd.”
Teaching table manners with this cultural awareness prepares students with well-rounded etiquette skills for global settings, a valuable part of etiquette certification programs.
When teaching good manners, it’s essential to guide children on proper fork and knife usage and refined eating techniques. In today’s fast-paced society, meals often include finger foods like chicken nuggets or apple slices, which don’t require utensils. As a result, children miss the opportunity to learn how to hold a fork correctly, often ending up using utensils like a shovel—a habit that’s improper in any culture.
How do I teach children to correctly hold a fork while eating?
This is so very important. Using a fork correctly is the same as holding a pencil. The child balances the fork on his middle finger with the index finger and thumb on top.
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.
These 5 Powerful Tools Will Help You Discover How Our Etiquette Certification Program Assists You in Getting a FAST START.
A new licensee had her first training call today. She chose the video option.Even though it was her first call, we had the chance to talk about all of her ideas on where she wanted to offer her manners programs. Later this week we will have her second call. She is in the works of using our templates to propose a program for a nine-week after-school workshop.
Another licensee who has almost completed her certification wants to focus on preschool.In fact, this licensee already has submitted a proposal to a library in her community.
This brings us to the first tool….
5 Powerful Tools to Get You Started Teaching Manners to Children
Because these tools will serve you so well, I am sharing them with you here.
THESE TOOLS WILL SAVE YOU TIME, MONEY, AND FRUSTRATION
Commit to these tools and your business will flourish.
Proposal Templates: This is a lifesaver!If you do not have a template on how to get started on proposal writing, you will procrastinate.
This is the reason so many of our licensees get a FAST START.We make this step easy.
Legal Forms: We include the necessary sample legal forms such as a Film and Photo Release andHealth and History Forms (food allergy, etc.).
These forms will save you time and legal fees.
Contract Templates:Providing a “contract is not only professional but serves as a reminder of the event you have booked and a payment schedule.
Accounting Guidelines:How do you keep up with everything?How do you invoice and accept payments?
Website Assistance:We are here for you.This is a big step and our system offers you all the help and guidance you need to get started on marketing yourself and your new business online.
Testimonial from a Current Manners To Go, Licensee
“Thanks to Manners To Go, the last three years have provided experiences that I would have never encountered.
MTG has been the vehicle that put my passion for equipping youth with valuable life skills into motion.
I have learned from a variety of enriching instructional opportunities over the last few years including private instruction, country clubs, an inner-city behavioral program, after-school programs, scout troops, and much more!
There is something so rewarding about seeing a student, the outgoing and talkative or quiet and reserved alike, gain confidence as they learn and apply the tools to navigate an otherwise intimidating social situation with ease”.
Are you following Manners To Go on Instagram? Facebook?
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.
Manners To Go™ is taught in public, private, and charter schools around the world. The New York Times, Parents Magazine, and Fox News have all featured Manners To Go and the many benefits of teaching social skills to children.
Whether you are an educator who wants to teach it in the classroom or someone who is looking to become trained and certified, we provide all the solutions.
My name is Lisa Richey, and I am the founder of Manners To Go™. This brand has given me the honor of teaching manners to thousands of people around the world. The journey has taken me from Portland, Oregon to the Middle East. I believe that manners are not about judgment or rules. Manners are about self-interest. It really is about how using good manners makes you feel on the inside
Lisa is a great mentor and her Manners to Go program is truly turn key. She taught me everything that I needed to learn to ensure that I will be successful in my endeavor . The program has been very helpful every step of the way. I feel truly blessed that I am part of her team. ~ Rita Linda Dayrit Philippines Etiquette Consultant, Manners and Mindfulness
Lisa is a consummate professional and has been an invaluable resource to me as I begin my new business. Not only is she warm and welcoming in person, she is also an expert in her field who makes the subject matter relatable and accessible to her clients. Her training has provided me with a vast knowledge of etiquette and best practices for teaching it.
As an international business operator, I have been impressed with Lisa’s curiosity and questions, which enabled her to advise me and apply her product in a new region for a new audience. Her knowledge of marketing enabled me to hit the ground running and hold my first classes within weeks of becoming certified. Not only have I opened my own business but I have also gained a teammate who is committed to my success. ~ Jenni F., Macau, China
Lisa Richey’s Manners To Go certification program provides a highly efficient and effective training program for anyone considering starting a manners and etiquette business. I selected her program because of the virtual delivery method of training. The lesson plans and student handouts were easy to download and review before engaging in her one-on-one conference calls. During each call, Mrs. Richey was very focused in conveying her business strategies she has proven to be successful over the years. Mrs. Richey’s Manners To Go certification program is really a “best value” program considering her efficient use of the virtual delivery method of training, the quality of teaching materials provided and the effective, interactive business calls with her I found necessary to guide my steps to make the business of teaching manners successful. ~ Aleta Greenspan, Alabama
As a former teacher, I deliberated for months over which etiquette curriculum would best fit and equip me with quality materials, instruction and support to reenter the field of education. Manners To Go delivers! I regret not getting started sooner. The investment is modest for the quantity and caliber of materials you receive, not to mention the personal coaching from Lisa. The curriculum is age appropriately structured and organized in an easy to study format that positions you to execute your lesson confidently prepared. If you have a passion for equipping young people in etiquette, Manners To Go, is the way to go! ~ Alissa R. | Etiquette Consultant
I was looking for charm school type material for my after school program for girls, and came upon the Manners To Go website. It was like finding a treasure trove of “what-to-do(s)” and “how-to-do(s)” on manners for children. It was more that I could have imagined finding. It is, without a doubt, one of the best decisions I have ever made.
In receiving my MTG training, Lisa provided every tool and resource needed to become a successful MTG Consultant. What excited me the most is that the training includes access to her many years of experience as a successful businesswoman.
I recommend the MTG program to parents, grandparents, teachers, after school programs, or anyone who may be concerned about what our children need know about manners and etiquette. Lisa’s Manners To Go is a great product, and it is a joy working with her! ~ Lindafaye N. Etiquette Consultant
Lisa, I am so happy I found you. I’ve wanted to teach kids etiquette for years, but never had the time to research all the material and then figure out how to teach it. With your Manners To Go program, I now have the perfect program to start my business. You delivered exactly what you promised: excellent support and a turnkey system. Thank you for making it easy and fun! It was truly an honor to be trained by someone of your caliber and experience, who was willing to share “everything you know, do, and use” with me. I would highly recommend you to anyone wanting to teach children’s etiquette! ~ Sandra E. Etiquette Consultant
Lisa went above and beyond what she promised to deliver. Her enthusiasm she shares for my business is very reassuring. I have found a life long mentor. ~ Michele W. Etiquette Consultant 2016
Defining “Fancy”—The Word, The Vibe, The Manners Magic You’ll Teach Today and Beyond
What does the word “fancy” mean to you?
“Fancy”— saying it brings a smile to your face, doesn’t it?
It’s a word that brings up images of something special, stylish, and a little extra! And who doesn’t want a little extra sometimes?
We love that each of our licensees bring their own style to their manners classes. Some are crafty and others focus more on the activities included in the Manners To Go lesson plans.
Let’s take a deep dive into the roots of this fabulous word and explore how you can use it to elevate your lessons in a way that’s sophisticated, fun, and oh-so-relevant for today’s world.
The Fancy Root of “Fancy”
The word “fancy” has a rich history. It originates from the word fantasy, which came from the Greek word “phantasia,” meaning imagination. Over time, “fancy” evolved to describe anything that tickles your imagination, delighting the senses with a touch of whimsy or extravagance.
But in 2024, fancy isn’t just about something opulent or over-the-top—it’s about embracing the joy of the little things, appreciating beauty in the everyday, and adding just the right amount of flair to make life feel special.
When you’re teaching children good manners, being fancy means showing them that kindness, respect, and style can be fun.
Fancy in 2024 and Beyond: A New Kind of Fun
Let’s talk about what it means to be fancy in today’s world. Gone are the days when being fancy was only about pearls and chandeliers (though we’re not saying no to those!). Now, it’s more about:
Confidence with a Smile: Fancy is owning who you are and how you present yourself—whether you’re teaching a group of little ones how to set the table or launching your own etiquette business. It’s about making sure every move is polished and every word thoughtful.
Delight in Details: From how you hold your fork to how you greet someone with eye contact, the little things matter. Teach your students (both adults and kids) that being fancy means finding joy in those delightful details that make every interaction sparkle.
Modern Elegance: Fancy today is less about extravagance and more about modern elegance. It’s about choosing sophistication over showiness, whether that’s in the way you dress, speak, or carry yourself.
Fancy is Fun—Especially When Teaching Children!
When teaching manners to children, “fancy” can be a magical word. It captures their attention and turns learning manners into something exciting.
Here’s How You Can Weave the Concept of Fancy into Your Manners Lesson Plans and Activities:
Fancy Table Settings: Show children how to set a fancy table. Let them pick out cute napkins or create a fun activity where they set the table for an imaginary tea party. Teaching table manners becomes less about rules and more about making something beautiful.
Fancy Words for Politeness: Teach kids the power of “please” and “thank you” by calling them “fancy words.” When they realize that politeness is fancy, they’ll be excited to use their manners all the time!
Fancy Greetings: Make a game out of greeting people with a fancy handshake or curtsy, blending good manners with a little bit of theatrical fun.
By teaching children that fancy is fun, you’re helping them appreciate the beauty of manners, making it an exciting part of their daily lives.
Starting Your Fancy Business: It’s All in the Details
For those looking to start a business teaching manners to children, using “fancy” as part of your brand language can set you apart. Parents and kids alike are drawn to the idea that learning manners can be stylish and fun.
Here’s how you can incorporate fancy into your business:
Fancy Programs: When teaching your classes, emphasize the fun side of fancy in your marketing. You’re not just teaching manners—you’re teaching how to make life more joyful and elegant.
Fancy Branding: Create a brand that reflects sophistication but with a playful twist. Think pastel colors, charming fonts, and language that’s both stylish and approachable.
Fancy Activities: From tea parties to dress-up days, bring fancy into every aspect of your business. Make your workshops interactive, where kids can practice their manners in fun, real-life scenarios that feel fancy but relatable.
Conclusion: Embrace the Fancy
So, what does it mean to be fancy in 2024 and beyond? It’s about modern elegance, delighting in the details, and showing the world that good manners are as fun as they are important. As you prepare to launch your etiquette business or work toward your etiquette certification, remember that fancy isn’t just a look—it’s a mindset.
Bring the flair, the sophistication, and the joy to everything you do.
Ready to get fancy and start your journey as an etiquette expert? Let’s make manners magical!
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.
Who out there loves to eat soup all year! Soup is one of my favorites meals and it helps us all to stay slim.
Today I am sharing all the details about the correct way to eat soup.
When it comes to elegance at the table, few things require more finesse than eating soup. It’s deceptively simple, yet so easy to spill—literally and figuratively. As certified etiquette experts (or soon-to-be!), it’s our job to teach the fine art of soup etiquette with wit, charm, and a dash of sophistication.
In a world where business lunches and upscale dinners are more common than ever, knowing how to handle the soup course can make or break a first impression. Whether your students are children learning the basics or professionals preparing for high-stakes networking, teaching them to gracefully navigate a bowl of bisque can elevate their presence at the table.
Teaching Soup Etiquette to Adults: Making the Fanciest of Sips Seamless
The Spoonful Scoop: First, remind participants to sip from the side of the spoon. Here’s the trick—always spoon away from you. It’s a subtle movement that signals grace, control, and confidence.
No Slurping Allowed: Of course, this one’s a classic—no slurping. But here’s the twist: explain why! The sound isn’t just impolite; it’s a distraction from good conversation, and we want our table manners to encourage interaction, not detract from it.
What to Do with the Crackers? Crumbling crackers into the soup is perfectly acceptable for casual settings or at home, but the key is moderation. Crackers are a supporting role, not the star of the show. Consider using your bread plate as place for the crackers.
Teaching Soup Etiquette to Children: Fun and Flavorful!
Teaching soup etiquette to children can be both fun and educational. When teaching, consider making soup a playful yet enlightening experience for little ones.
Spoons are Cool Tools: Introduce the spoon as a “cool tool” that they get to use with style. Make it interactive! Demonstrate how to hold the spoon correctly—think thumb and index finger as the power players, gently scooping away from the body.
Cracker Craze: Let’s be real—kids love crackers. Show them how to break crackers gently (not crumble them into soup like confetti!) and to enjoy them in bites on the side if needed.
Making No Slurping Silly: Turn no-slurping into a game. Who can eat soup the quietest? This teaches kids to be mindful of sounds without feeling too strict about it.
This stylish and fun approach to soup etiquette will leave your students feeling both confident and empowered. Enjoy!
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.
Before you decide, ask yourself these three essential questions about any certification program:
Is the Curriculum Dynamic and Content-Rich? Will you feel proud to represent this program? Does it reflect your brand and elevate your image?
Will I Receive Unmatched Support? Ongoing support is key to your long-term success. Is the program committed to helping you grow?
Are the Fees Transparent? Manners To Go offers a comprehensive, no-surprise pricing structure. After your initial fee, you won’t pay again until the end of the three-year license, with an easy renewal process and no hidden fees.
Many new consultants come to us after choosing less effective programs, with outdated materials and weak business plans.
At Manners To Go, our modern, engaging illustrations and step-by-step marketing guidance will empower you to succeed.
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.
How to Be an Elegant Woman : A Guide for Etiquette Experts
I have always noticed and observed elegant women. I am intrigued by them.
For me, an elegant woman elicits trust.
She has an inner guide that allows for kindness while at the same time a certain power and style that I find very attractive.
I notice this even before she speaks.
When I first moved to Philadelphia and starting my business, I attended multiple networking events a month. To this day, I remember the elegant women that crossed my path.
They walked into a room with style, polish and grace.
Today I am addressing the elegant woman as it relates specifically to us – those of us that are interested and passionate about etiquette and social graces.
Enjoy this article- take it all in with your favorite chocolate and the most gorgeous teacup you own! And of course, send us the photos.
We always enjoy hearing from you.
Elegance remains timeless. As certified etiquette experts, it’s more important than ever to embody grace and refinement.
Elegance transcends physical appearance; it’s a reflection of poise, self-confidence, and respect for others. In 2024, elegance means:
Effortless sophistication: Subtle but impactful gestures that leave lasting impressions.
Empathy and emotional intelligence: Understanding how your actions affect others and making thoughtful decisions.
In essence, elegance today is a blend of timeless manners, modern awareness, and emotional intelligence.
Why Is Elegance Crucial for Etiquette Experts?
As a certified etiquette expert, you’re not only a model of professional behavior, but also a mentor to those learning the art of social grace. Elegance:
Instills trust: People naturally gravitate toward individuals who exhibit grace under pressure.
Elevates personal and professional reputation: Elegance is synonymous with respectability, which is essential when establishing yourself as a trusted etiquette authority.
Enhances teaching ability: Your clients and students are more likely to absorb and implement the practices you advocate when you lead by example.
Being an elegant woman in 2024 is about demonstrating authenticity, confidence, and cultural awareness, qualities that are fundamental to shaping the next generation of leaders through etiquette.
Steps to Achieve Elegance in Today’s World
Here’s how you can embrace elegance and stand out as an etiquette expert:
Prioritize Continuous Learning
Stay informed about modern etiquette standards, and maintain a growth mindset. Engaging in certification programs like Manners To Go is a powerful way to stay relevant in the field.
Refine Communication Skills
Your voice is a tool. Cultivate a polished communication style by practicing active listening, clear enunciation, and impeccable tone management. How you speak reflects your inner grace.
Develop Emotional Intelligence
Being elegant means being attuned to the emotions of others. Hone your emotional intelligence by practicing empathy and remaining composed in challenging situations.
Perfect Your Personal Presentation
While elegance is more than appearance, presenting yourself well is crucial. Opt for classic, tailored fashion choices that reflect your personality while maintaining sophistication.
Be Mindful of Modern Etiquette Standards
Elegance in 2024 involves understanding the nuances of online and in-person behavior. Practice good digital etiquette by being respectful in emails, social media, and virtual meetings.
How Elegance Sets You Apart
In a world where speed often overshadows quality, elegance serves as a beacon of professionalism. For etiquette experts, mastering elegance:
Creates lasting impressions: Your clients, students, and peers will remember you for your refined approach.
Positions you as a leader in your field: As elegance becomes rare, those who exhibit it naturally rise above the competition.
Enhances your teaching impact: When you embody the qualities you teach, you inspire others to follow suit.
In conclusion, elegance in 2024 is a powerful blend of traditional grace and modern awareness.
By pursuing a certification from Manners To Goand focusing on cultivating personal elegance, you will not only stand out as an etiquette expert but also inspire a culture of refinement and professionalism for future generations.