You know how to say please and how to chew politely. What about food that is far away?
Key idea
If something is out of reach, ask “Please pass the peas” instead of reaching across someone's plate.
Why it works
Reaching across the table can knock over cups and puts arms in other people's food. Asking is safer, and it is kinder to your neighbors.
When you pass something, hold it carefully with two hands, and hand it to the person, not over their food. Then you can say, “Here you go.”
Worked example: Let's practice
Leo asks Hana, “Please pass the bread.” What should Hana do?
- Leo asked kindly.
- Hana picks up the bread basket carefully.
- She hands it to Leo.
Answer: Hana passes it: “Here you go.”
Common mistake
Stretching across the table or standing up to grab a dish. Asking is safer for the cups and kinder to neighbors.
For the grown-up. Serve family-style sometimes, with bowls on the table, so your child gets real practice asking and passing. Small, light bowls are easier to pass.