Let the Kids Set the Table! Tips for Making it Fun!
Setting the table is one of the most popular chores for kids of all ages!
This was a special chore at my Grandma’s house every Sunday. She taught me how to set the table when I was young, and I continued to help her as I got older.
It’s a great bonding activity for families!
Teaching the kids this responsibility gives them a chance to have a part in the meal preparation process and learn a little about table etiquette.
Where does the fork go? Where do I put the glass? Here is a short video on Basic Table Setting Skills for Kids. It’s a great starter video!
Why not infuse a little fun into the table-setting chore?
I enjoyed collecting a variety of napkins and napkin rings over the years. The kids would mix and match them to spice up the table!
We also have a variety of holiday plates that we use during the Christmas season. This way, you get a unique napkin, plate, bowl, and mug as well!
Not only is this fun and a great conversation starter for guests, but if a plate breaks or a napkin badly stains, you have a variety still to choose from. If a plate breaks, it’s not part of an irreplaceable set. You can replace it with a new fun plate.
Dressing up a table setting for a holiday or special occasion is fun for kids, too!
Consider letting the kids make place cards for each person or drawing on a paper tablecloth or placemat for each guest. Check out a cute snowman table setting here from Pinterest. Here are a few ideas to spark your own creativity…
Have you ever tried fancy napkin folding?
Check out this video from 5-Minute Crafts GIRLY!
Learn your favorite fold and show the kids! They will think it’s awesome and want to learn how to do it, too!
There are a ton of ways to fold napkins in this video!
Folding fancy napkins can keep the kids busy while you finish preparing other details for a special occasion!
So whether it’s just an ordinary weeknight dinner, or a special occasion, setting the table is the best chore, I think! Have fun and Bon appetite!
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Parenting is not about perfection!