Teach Children to Use Good Manners in Restaurants

How to Become a Certified Etiquette Trainer for Children—and Teach Them to Dine with Grace

I recently came across a sign outside a restaurant that read: Unattended Children Will Be Given Espresso and a Free Kitten. It made me smile. But, as humorous as it is, it also speaks to a very real issue.

Over the years, I’ve had countless restaurant owners, servers, and fellow diners ask about the dilemma of unattended children in restaurants. From the restaurant’s perspective, it’s a safety hazard—servers juggling trays of piping-hot dishes don’t mix well with little ones running around. From a diner’s perspective, the endless noise and distractions can turn what could be an elegant evening into a chaotic circus.

So, where does that leave us?

It’s simple: teaching children how to dine out with grace, confidence, and charm.

Teach Children to Use Good Manners in Restaurants

The Life-Changing Power of Dining Etiquette

I grew up as an only child for much of my life—my sister is ten years older—so dining out with adults was the norm. Often, these outings included my father’s clients or customers. Little did I know, those experiences were shaping me for adulthood. By the time I entered the corporate world, I was completely at ease in any business setting—especially when I was the one hosting the dinner.

This is why teaching children proper restaurant behavior isn’t just about keeping them from launching sugar packets across the table. It’s about preparing them for life. 

Confidence at the dinner table translates to confidence in everyday life.

Teaching Children’s Dining Etiquette as a Certified Expert

If you’re passionate about helping children grow into poised, self-assured young adults, becoming a certified etiquette trainer might be your calling. At Manners To Go, our certification program equips you with everything you need to teach children’s etiquette—including a dynamic restaurant manners module.

Our curriculum isn’t about stuffy rules—it’s about engaging, real-world learning. Role-playing activities make lessons fun and interactive. Children get to practice everything from ordering politely to handling utensils with ease.

Imagine guiding a child through their first fine-dining experience—teaching them how to properly unfold a napkin, navigate multiple forks, and engage in conversation without a tablet glued to their hands. These skills last a lifetime.

Why Get Certified with Manners To Go?

Becoming a certified etiquette expert for children means you’ll have the tools, credibility, and confidence to teach with authority. Our program is designed for those who want to launch their own business or enhance their current career in education or coaching.

Here’s what you’ll gain:

A complete, ready-to-use curriculum—No need to start from scratch. ✔ Credibility & expertise—Stand out as a trained professional in children’s etiquette. ✔ Business support—We provide guidance on launching and growing your business. ✔ A fulfilling career—Make an impact while doing what you love.

The Future of Dining (and Why You Matter)

The way we dine says a lot about us. As a certified etiquette expert, you’ll play a key role in shaping a new generation of polite, poised, and self-assured young people. And who knows? Maybe the next time you see a sign about free kittens and espresso-fueled children, you’ll smile—knowing you’re part of the solution.

Related Article: Which Fork to Use

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re excited about the idea of teaching etiquette and launching your own business, let’s chat. Becoming a certified etiquette trainer with Manners To Go is the perfect way to make a lasting impact—one polished child at a time.

Click Here to Learn More About Certification

Here is a FREE Guide to Help YOU Start a Business Teaching Manners to Children

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6 Things Needed to start an etiquette business
   

Here Are Your Next Steps

Step 1

Get to Know Manners To Go™

Most likely, you will want to get to know us. Feel free to call or email us. Click on the links below. We are happy to discuss the details with you.

Step 2

Decide on the best training option for you

We offer two trainings to become certified to teach manners to children:

Professional Consultant Certification - Live video training

Option #1:

“Live” Video Training

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 NOT self-guided.

2 Day Etiquette Certificate Training

Option #2:

Two-Day In-Person

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.

Step 3

Receive the curriculum and book your training dates

Upon payment, you receive the curriculum. Next, we will send an email asking you to schedule your first training date.

Manners To Go Lesson Plans for Teachers

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Manners To Go™ movement with Lisa Richey.

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