“ We wait for everyone to be seated before eating. We hold hands and pray over the meal and our evening.
“ One huge piece of advice that I would give is to have your child(ren) help in some way. When your children feel involved and have a sense of pride in their accomplishment, they enjoy dinner time more and are more likely to use good manners without having to be reminded!
“ We don’t have room for a dinning room table, so instead we bought our daughter her own table at which she eats with us in the living room. While it’s not the ideal situation, someday I hope we can have a traditional family dinner together like my family did.
“ Tell the cook how fantastic he/she is. Things like “Wow your cooking is absolutely fantastic, it is the best I’ve EVER had. You must have slaved away all day at this, that’s how good this is” are ALWAYS appreciated.
“ Make sure you are sitting in your chair the correct way. Feet need to be on the floor and your bottom needs to be in the seat of the chair.
“ Begin establishing your family meal time early. Start your meals within the same 30-minute window every night. This allows time for family activities that may run over and general business, but it still keeps meals consistent.
“ It is most tempting for me to offer to cut your food as you struggle to get a bite. But I will refrain. You have to learn to cut your food at some point.
“ Clean everything off the table. The only things that should be on the table is plates, utensils, drink glasses, and food. I even like to clear off the centerpieces so I have a clear view of everyone at the table and can look them in the eye when I am talking or listening.
“ Do make it special once in a while. Break out the candlesticks and cloth napkins but don’t go overboard and demand that level every day.
“ I believe it’s important for everyone to remain at the table until everyone has finished eating. Sitting for a few more minutes is going to help your food digest better and it shows a great deal of respect, and the family conversation won’t hurt you either!
