I FIRST stumbled upon the idea of teaching table manners through a tea party in my K's toddler school. It was considered a major event of the Toddler Class.
The teachers really planned and executed a very cute picnic setting under the school's mango tree, complete with mats, throw pillows, short tables and tiny chairs for the little ones. Since there were only about six kids in the class, they also added the stuffed animals from the classroom and gave them their own places.
Kids and teachers dressed for the tea party. The tykes were seated down and served cupcakes, pastries and juices poured into teacups. Much to my amazement, the usually rowdy little kids mimicked the dainty manner in which the adults munched on the pastries. Throughout the tea party, their teachers gently guided them on proper table manners.
My five-year-old no longer remember that tea party. So when I heard that Magill's Bistro serves tea and pastries to share at a very reasonable price, hubby and I decided it was time for another tea party.
We told her since she had done well during her exams, she could invite some of her cousins to join her tea party.
On the way to the bistro, I laid the ground rules for the three kids: No gadgets, talk to each other and enjoy each other's company.
The little ladies are both five years old and the little gentleman is about 10. Since they have already acquired good table manners, we decided to up the ante a bit.
We told Cedric that he should act like a gentleman and a gentleman should take notice if the ladies' cup needs more tea. He should offer them more tea and pour it. And since he is the oldest in the group, when the younger ones need more food, he should serve them. And the ladies must never forget to be polite and thank the gentleman.
And they really did play out being little ladies and being a gentleman during the tea party! But of course kids will still be kids. When Nina asked K how her tea tastes like, she said, "Like fire and lava (referring to Minecraft materials). How about yours?"
Nina replied with, "Like stone and eyeballs." Much giggling ensued, the kids taking delight in what they think of as sophisticated conversation.
And when Cedric poured more tea for them, my K flirtingly told her cousin, "Oooohhhh. Such a hot boy!" K and Nina looked at each other and giggled like they already have boobs and front teeth.
Next project: Toning down the seemingly inherent flirtiness of our little lady. Now that would take more than a tea party.
Cheers to raising kids!
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