Instills Confidence: Most Children are social beings and enjoy eating together. When they know the basics…napkin in lap and using it, chew with their mouth closed, etc. they feel good about themselves. They are confident. They know what to do when eating with others.
Joy in Helping: Setting the table starts the ritual of eating together. When you allow children to take an active role, they feel useful. Taking out the plates, forks and napkins sets the tone for togetherness. This can be in the cafeteria at school, in the classroom or at home.
There is so much joy in helping out a parent or teacher. They can also take on a role at the end of the meal by clearing the table (how fun is that chore!).
Conversation Skills: I always tell teachers and parents, if you want your children to have good conversation skills, sit down together at meal time. Not only does sitting down together to eat teach table manners, this act also teaches everyone about talking to each other.
Ask questions. Learn what happened during the day. This is a simple step to take and adds so much value for life.
If you weren't sure, the knife usually goes on the right of the plate, the fork on the left (the other way round if you are left handed). The desert spoon handle goes towards the knife. The glass goes above the knife and the side plate goes to the left of the fork. But just bringing the cutlery and mats to the table is a way children can help and can feel good about themselves while they do it.