Are you looking for ways to teach students appropriate mealtime manners? If so, keep reading.
1. Train the learner in appropriate mealtime etiquette (e.g., speaking with an empty mouth, eating with mouth closed, chewing quietly, etc.).
2. Train the learner in selecting an appropriate amount of food, eating an appropriate amount of food, taking properly sized bites, etc.
3. Train the learner in appropriate cleanup learning activities upon the conclusion of eating (e.g., disposing of trash, putting trays and tableware in appropriate places, washing hands, etc.).
4. Train the learner in the appropriate use of napkins (e.g., keep on lap, wipe mouth, clean up spills, etc.).
5. Train the learner in appropriate line behavior (e.g., waiting quietly, refraining from physical contact, moving with the line, etc.).
6. Make sure the learner sits properly while eating (e.g., sits near the table, sits upright, leans forward, etc.).
7. Train the learner in appropriate behavior when finishing a meal early (e.g., making conversation, remaining in their seat, excusing themselves, etc.).
8. Train the learner in appropriate ways to get seconds or additional food (e.g., asking for seconds, going through the cafeteria line a second time, purchasing seconds, etc.).
9. Take the learner away from eating with their peers if they cannot demonstrate appropriate mealtime behaviors.
10. Teach the learner appropriate ways to drink liquids (e.g., opening milk cartons and juice containers, using a straw, pouring into a glass, drinking from a glass, etc.).
11. Teach the learner appropriate ways to respond to food they do not want (e.g., sample everything at least once, leave the food on the plate, offer extra portions to others, etc.).
12. Train the learner in appropriate ways to clean up spills (e.g., ask for assistance, use paper towels and napkins, etc.).
13. Train the learner inappropriate ways to clean clothing when accidents happen during mealtime (e.g., immediately go to the restroom, use paper towels and napkins, etc.).
