Table Manners for Humans
#1 in Etiquette Essentials Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Table manners can vary based on the company at the table. RL Sosa and a group of her fuzzy, scaly, and feathery friends explore different table manners and provide ten easy tips to help children demonstrate proper etiquette when dining with human friends.
Discussion points
Why do you think it’s important to have good manners at the table?
What is one table manner you learned from the book that you would like to try?
How do you feel when everyone is polite and uses their manners during meals?
Can you think of a situation where it might be difficult to remember your manners? What would you do?
How can practicing good table manners help us outside of meal times?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a comfortable and open environment for discussion by keeping the tone light and encouraging.
Relate the story and its themes to your child's personal experiences with meals, both at home and in social settings.
Praise your child’s insights and responses to cultivate a positive attitude towards manners and respect.
Use hypothetical scenarios to encourage critical thinking about why manners matter and how they affect others.
Reinforce the themes of the book by practicing table manners together during family meals.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect toward others
Explanation: The book teaches children the importance of using polite words and actions at the table, reinforcing respect toward family and friends.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by using polite phrases like 'please' and 'thank you' during meal times and respecting everyone's space and needs at the table.
Example Lesson: Patience
Explanation: Through the characters' experiences, the book demonstrates the value of waiting for everyone to be served before eating.
Real-World Application: This can be applied in a child's life by waiting their turn in various situations such as while playing games or waiting in line, fostering good self-control and consideration for others.
Example Lesson: Importance of cleanliness
Explanation: The story shows characters cleaning up after themselves, emphasizing the importance of cleanliness and personal responsibility.
Real-World Application: Kids can learn to clear and clean their own space after eating or playing, which builds responsibility and organizational skills.
Example Lesson: Sharing
Explanation: The book highlights moments where characters share food and items at the table, promoting the value of sharing.
Real-World Application: Children can practice sharing with siblings, friends, and classmates, helping to build cooperative skills and empathy.
Example Lesson: Healthy eating habits
Explanation: Characters in the book choose a variety of foods, teaching children the benefits of a balanced diet.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to try different healthy foods at home and school, contributing to better nutrition and food awareness.