When you sit down at the table, the first thing to do is find your napkin.
Key idea
Put your napkin on your lap when you sit down. Use it to wipe your mouth and fingers.
Why it works
The napkin waits on your lap, ready for spills and messy fingers. It keeps your clothes, the table and your hands clean.
When the meal is over, leave your napkin loosely on the table, next to your plate. A grown-up will show you where it goes at your house.
Worked example: Let's practice
Mia sits down to eat. Her napkin is next to her plate. What should she do?
- The napkin is next to the plate, on the left.
- Mia unfolds it.
- She lays it on her lap.
Answer: Mia puts her napkin on her lap.
Common mistake
Wiping hands on clothes, or using a sleeve. The napkin is there so we never have to.
For the grown-up. Give your child their own napkin at every meal, even snacks, so it becomes automatic. Cloth napkins are easy to grab and fun to fold.