Whether teaching table manners or instilling the importance of saying a simple “thank you,” children always learn when taught well.

Consider these 8 top etiquette tips every parent needs to know and share to ensure their kids behave well and enjoy themselves at weddings and other events.

1.  Brief Kids Ahead of Time.
It is important to inform kids about the event when the invitation arrives. Ensure they genuinely want to attend with you and understand what’s expected of them, even before submitting the RSVP. Explain in as much detail as possible what will take place that day and what they are expected to do before, during, and after the event.For example, your family’s wedding reception will be an exquisite waterfront affair in California [Check out these venues: https://breezit.com/wedding-venues/waterfront]. Explain to your kids how they can enjoy the beautiful scenery but must stay away from the water to avoid accidents and keep their clothes dry. This way, everyone will have a wonderful time without unnecessary mishaps.

2. Personal Hygiene.
Explain as part of good hygiene and a sign of respect and caring about the special occasion you are attending, kids and adults are expected to shower or bathe the day of the event and adhere to proper cleanliness at all times, including sneezing and coughing hygiene* and washing their hands before sitting down at a dining table.

*Sneezing and coughing into a tissue or napkin is always best. Absent these items, sneezing or coughing into a sleeve at the elbow is second best.

Remind kids to keep themselves looking clean and neat at all times, in public settings, ensuring they will never feel discomfort due to poor personal hygiene. Kids should never get dirty by touching dirty items, wiping their hands clean on their clothes, or sitting or lying on the floor in public. These are great lessons to reinforce to build the right habits through adulthood.

3.  Dress Appropriately.
Stress the significance of dressing appropriately for all special occasions. Wedding invitations often include a suggested dress code for guests, which should be considered when choosing what you and your child will wear.

Remember, this is no time to sacrifice your child’s comfort and think wrongly about how they will outgrow the clothes as an excuse not to buy and have proper clothes for various events. Instead, recognize how learning to buy and have appropriate clothes for various occasions is a crucial life lesson for kids and adults.

To ensure your child feels comfortable wearing nice clothes, skillfully engage and guide them to choose their own clothes to wear ahead of time. Have a dress rehearsal at home by having them wear the outfit for an hour or two at home to feel at ease in those clothes by the event day.

4.  Displaying Great Manners.
No matter the social situation, teaching kids basic manners, such as “Please,” “Thank you,” and “You’re welcome” (not no problem) is vital. Parents must encourage kids to “be kind and polite, which is an article I wrote about some time ago. [Also at: https://www.advancedetiquette.com/life/the-importance-of-being-kind-and-polite/]

Teach kids that when introducing themselves to others, a sign of great manners is for the kid to be the first to proffer their hand for a handshake, showing respect. Kids also need reminding, especially when excited, to never speak over someone when they are speaking, as it is considered rude not to wait their turn before speaking.

5. Practice Simple Table Manners.
Parents of younger kids should make every effort to practice simple table manners at home all the time, such as “not” talking with their mouths full, chewing with their mouths open and making noise, and eating food with their hands. Everyone appreciates good table manners, which will help your child and yourself hear the praises and feel more comfortable navigating any wedding and event gracefully. For kids 8 or 9 and up, enroll in one of our Youth/Teen/Parent seminars. [Also at:  https://AdvancedEtiquette.com/schedule.]

6.  Teach to Learn About Basic Traditions.
Some weddings glorify the cake-cutting ceremony, while others await the moment before the bride tosses her bouquet as the highlight. Whatever the focus, keep your kids in the loop about what will likely take place, whether it be at a traditional American, Asian, or other specific religious and ethnic cultural ceremony.

Adults know to remain silent through areas of any ceremony they don’t understand. Kids, however, are likely to ask too many questions at the moment, which may be disruptive. Make your attendance at this wedding and all festive events a teachable opportunity for everyone to learn everything you can about the ceremonies and traditions that will be displayed. Learning about different styles of ethnic and cultural customs and traditions will make your attendance more enjoyable when you know what’s happening and how to be involved.

7.  Be mindful of surroundings.
While it’s unlikely that your child will feel overwhelmed during loud and lively events, it’s crucial for both kids and adults to be mindful and respectful of their surroundings. This awareness is particularly important in formal settings, where decorum and respect are highly valued.

If you’re at a formal wedding venue with elaborate fixtures or luxury decor, tell your kids not to run about or play when they get restless. Encourage them to sit quietly to follow along as the speeches and ceremonies take place to keep their minds busy. Make it a game by telling them you will quiz them on this or that about what they’ve seen and experienced on the way home.  This is also the best time to encourage them to ask all the questions they want to know for the next time.

8.  Factor in rest periods.
Wedding receptions can be lengthy celebrations lasting for hours.  Your child (and maybe yourself) will undoubtedly need some rest time during the event. If you’re bringing a toddler, consider a carrier or stroller to help them rest or take a quick nap. Take younger kids to a quiet place to sit for at least 15 minutes periodically throughout the event.

Allow older kids to bring their tablet, game, or book to keep them occupied when nothing special happens during the wedding or event. Overall, whether adult or child, taking breaks through a lengthy event helps to stay refreshed and well-behaved.

Conclusion:
Children play a crucial role in family functions, particularly weddings. As a result, parents need to equip their kids with the necessary skills and knowledge before attending any event. Reviewing the tips listed above will ensure everyone involved has a truly enjoyable, positive, and memorable experience.

Happy Practicing!