Table setting seems to be the first “job” we give our kids when they are old enough to help us in the kitchen. If we give them that job to do, we should also teach them the correct way to do it!
The correct table setting is actually quite simple and is based on what is used first, from the outside towards the plate. Forks are always on the left with the salad fork first, since salad is usually served first; next comes the dinner fork; and, if used, the dessert fork is closest to the plate. On the right, closest to the plate is the knife – with the cutting edge towards the plate. Then come the spoons – teaspoon to the right of the knife with the soup spoon on the far right, since soup is usually served before the main course.
The napkin should be set to the left of the forks with the folded edge towards the plate. It is best not to set the silverware on top of the napkin, because you would have to remove all the silverware to get to the napkin, because it is the first item used at the table.. It can be placed on the plate or where the plate goes to eliminate using too much table space for one place setting.
The Emily Post website is an excellent source to use, with diagrams of place settings and tips on how to remember whose bread plate and drink glass belongs to whom!
And what is a well set table without a centerpiece?? The main thing to keep in mind with centerpieces is that you don’t want them interfering with your conversation to the people across the table. Either make them low enough so you can see over them or raise them high enough so you can see the person across the table from you. Depending on the size of your family, the centerpiece could be set on one side of the table if you use the other 3 sides for place settings. That way the centerpiece could be any height, since it does not interfere with conversation.
Imagination can be your guide for a centerpiece – and kids have great imaginations! You don’t need fancy, cut glass vases. Some ordinary bottles are unique enough to hold a some flowers. Use several small jars or bottles with just a flower in each one. With fall in full swing, pumpkins, gourds, leaves, etc. can set a theme for your table. You do not need to use flowers as a centerpiece. Some of your class artwork can become centerpieces to be enjoyed by the whole family.
I love candles and usually have many candles lit for a dinner! If using candles, of course, safety is your first concern. Tapers are most likely to be tipped over, so I like to use several votives when I want candlelight with children at the table. You can even purchase battery run tea lights that look like the real thing with no fire involved! As the kids get older, it was an honor to light the candles and to be the one to snuff them out. A candle snuffer is a safer way to put out a candle rather than blowing it out, since hot wax get blown along with the flame!
Try a formal dinner with your kids, they’ll love it!
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