“Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not turn from it.”  Proverbs 22:6.  This verse is a reminder of the commission the Lord gives parents to train children.  As a mother of four children, three of whom are boys, I have found etiquette to be a challenging component of the parenting process.  My wonderful young men are often not interested in “table manners”.  This verse encourages  me because it highlights the result of consistent teaching… “when he is old he will not turn from it”.  Hopefully, by the time my children enter the dating years, my efforts will produce fruit.

Recently, I incorporated a lesson in table etiquette into a reading lesson for my second graders.  I utilized a simple place setting and demonstrated the proper way to set a table.  It was interesting to see the diversity within my class.  Several students were very familiar with the process and commented that setting the table was a part of their household responsibility.  Others were familiar with the process, but did not know how to set the table themselves.  Interestingly, I had a few students who had never eaten dinner in their home with the table set in preparation for the meal.

In the age of quick meals and busy family schedules, I am the first one to admit that etiquette often goes by the wayside.  In our family, it would be very challenging to have china and fine linens at every meal.  Etiquette has to change with the times.  Even if you are serving your favorite take-out meal, take the time to add a little pizzazz to the evening.  The principles of etiquette can easily be taught with festive dinnerware and acrylic glasses at the dinner table or as an outdoor dining experience.  The simplicity of a set table also sends a message to your family members that they are valued and indicates that you are preparing to listen to their news during the meal.  Family fellowship over the dinner table is one part of my heritage that I cherish.  It is my desire that my children will look back over their childhood with fond memories of our family dinners.

Etiquette may be a part of your child’s career in the future.  Take the time to train in the formative years so that you will not put a “stumbling block” in the future.