Emily Post's Table Manners for Kids: A Guide to Dining Etiquette and Essential Social Skills for Children

by Cindy Post Senning, Peggy Post, Steve Bjorkman (Illustrator)

Which fork do I use?
How do you use chopsticks?
Is it okay to answer my cell phone during dinner?
What is the polite way to eat spaghetti?

These and other important questions are answered in this handy guide to eating without grossing people out. Pretty much everything you need to know to get you through any meal is here—from table settings, to eating tricky foods, to holding up your end of a dinner conversation.

Written by two codirectors of The Emily Post Institute, the most trusted name in etiquette, Emily Post's Table Manners for Kids isn't just for fancy parties and dinner at your grandmother's house. It's got basic information you can use every day to improve your social life.

Genres: Parenting, Reference, Childrens

96 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

Cindy Post Senning, Ed.D. is Emily Post’s great-granddaughter and a director of The Emily Post Institute. newest book for children is Emily Post's Table Manners for Kids (Collins, May 2009) co-written with Peggy Post.

Cindy’s educational background and expertise in etiquette uniquely qualify her to write definitively on the subject of children’s manners in the 21st century. Her writing and recommendations are based on the concept of introducing specific manners at certain developmental stages in a child’s life.

In February 2008, Emily Post’s Children’s Etiquette Train the Trainer Program was launched with Cindy as its premier presenter. Cindy developed the program and conducts this unique and intensive three-day training for etiquette professionals twice each year.

In the past three years, Cindy has completed two nationwide book tours, conducting manners workshops for children in public and private schools and libraries, as well as making bookstore appearances and giving media interviews. The 2006 tour for Emily’s Everyday Manners was sponsored by The Children’s Place and Parents magazine. The 2004 book tour for The Guide to Good Manners for Kids was sponsored by Betty Crocker, Horizon Organics and Parents.

Cindy and Peggy have also co-authored The Gift of Good Manners: A Parent’s Guide to Raising Respectful, Kind, Considerate Children; The Guide to Good Manners for Kids; Emily's Everyday Manners; Emily’s Magic Words; and Teen Manners: From Malls to Meals to Messaging and Beyond. All are part of a ten-book children’s series, which is being published by HarperCollins.

Cindy’s professional background includes more than 30 years in education and health care. She holds a doctorate and master’s in education, both from the University of Vermont; and a degree in nursing from Cornell University. Cindy resides in Waterbury, Vermont, with her husband John. They have two grown sons.

Reviews

[Darbyscloset · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emily Post tackle’s the issue of “Table Manners for Kids”. This book is co-authored by Peggy Post and Cindy Post Senning, daughters of Emily. From how to eat cherry tomato’s, to the proper way to set the table, to how to apologize for a slip up while at the table, to how to throw a dinner party, this book covers it all with easy to understand picture’s along with question and answer segments. Kids will be delighted in how this book addresses common mistakes, makes light of them and moves on to the correct way to handle the situation. Nobody learns well when they receive table manner lessons while being ridiculed for their behavior at the table, and this book takes on the job of addressing common do’s and do not’s without the fear of being criticized. As an adult, I would recommend this book to people of all ages who have interaction with children, be their interaction daily or monthly, for our action’s are the best teachers. This is an enjoyable read and I learned quite a lot regarding “proper table manners”. Similar to how “slang” has infected our language; “slangish manner’s” have infected our table habits and show up as a lack of respect for our selves and others while at the table.

[Lady Riviera · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book offers a clear and approachable introduction to manners, especially for children. It thoughtfully explains both formal and informal approaches, and the inclusion of charming illustrations helps keep the content from feeling too dry or instructional.

That said, a few of the informal suggestions didn’t quite align with what I consider polite—some might even come across as rude depending on one’s background. While I appreciate the intent to show flexibility, I believe certain fundamental manners should remain consistent, regardless of whether you’re in a formal or casual setting.

I also felt that a few of the tips could have been presented with better or more universally appropriate alternatives. Still, it’s an informative and accessible read. I’d recommend parents look through it beforehand, as ideas of politeness can vary from family to family.

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book for teaching kids table manners. I even learned a few things!

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Advanced Reader Copy

I enjoyed reading this little book on table manners for kids; however, I really can't see any kids picking up or buying this book to read unless they are writing a report on manners. I think it would be a great book for parents and children to read together in an effort to help kids grasp table manners. Drawings are great and the book is easy reading.

[Alisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

A basic table manners books. Covers most every kind of meal from casual to formal. I can't imagine anyone reading this book cover to cover but maybe as a general resource. Good for children who need to learn to be less sloppy or ones that may be going to a fancy dinner at a restaurant or event like a wedding.

[Elise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written in an understandable way for kids