If your kids don’t know how to use eating utensils properly, they may make a mess at the table during every meal. There’s an etiquette to dining out, and young children may behave impolitely at family friendly restaurants. Thankfully, teaching your little ones table manners is easy with these helpful strategies.

3 Tips for Teaching Children Table Manners

1. Explain the Rules Outside of Mealtime

Kids thrive on routine, which includes knowing what to expect in advance. Take the time to explain what you expect during meals at home and family friendly restaurants. If your children are young, keep the rules simple: use a fork, don’t throw food, and politely ask for what you need.

When mealtime rolls around, your kids will be excited to show you what they remember. If they forget something, give them a gentle reminder and encourage them to try again.

2. Throw a Pretend Dinner or Tea Party

Give your older kids a copy of Tiffany’s Table Manners for Teenagers, and plan a fancy meal at home with their friends so that they can show you what they learned. This knowledge will improve their behavior during everyday meals and prepare them for socializing as an adult.

3. Turn It into a Game

At home, write down all the mealtime expectations on a large poster board and hang it where everyone can see it from the dining table. Rules you may want to write down include keeping your elbows off the table, chewing with your mouth closed, and asking to be excused when finished. Give everyone five points at the start of the meal, and deduct one point for each rule they break. After a few meals, your kids will be monitoring everyone like a hawk while making sure they don’t break any of the rules themselves.

When you’re satisfied with the progress your children have made, head to bills Hawaii to give them a chance to show off their new manners. Located in the heart of Waikiki, this family friendly restaurant has been serving mouthwatering meals to Oahu locals since 2008. From fruit bowls and hotcakes to pasta and crab, this eatery offers a wide array of dishes for any age. View their breakfast menu online, or call (808) 922-1500 to make a reservation.