Many young people today have limited opportunities to learn formal social skills such as proper table manners, respectful conversation, and dining etiquette. This gap can lead to challenges in social settings, especially in professional or formal environments later in life. The need to build confidence and etiquette in youth became a priority identified through conversations with local homeschool families. 

In response to this need, the Lawrence County 4-H program partnered with the local R.O.C.K. homeschool group to offer an etiquette class designed to teach youth formal manners and proper behavior in social and dining settings. The program was a collaborative effort with Family and Consumer Sciences Agent Deana West, who co-led the sessions and helped prepare the three-course meal. The class included hands-on learning through roleplay, practice sessions, and culminated in a formal dining experience where youth practiced everything from napkin placement to polite dinner conversation. As a follow-up, participants used their new skills in a real-world setting during a group meal at The Winchester restaurant in Ashland, KY.

Twelve homeschool youth, ranging in age from 9 to 14, participated in the program. These students represented a diverse group of learners, many of whom had never experienced a formal dining setting before. The program offered a valuable opportunity to build life skills in a safe and supportive environment. 

Post-program evaluations and parent feedback indicated a significant increase in participants’ confidence and understanding of proper etiquette. 100% of participants were able to correctly demonstrate the use of utensils, table setting knowledge, and appropriate dinner conversation by the conclusion of the class. The opportunity to practice their skills at The Winchester further reinforced their learning and helped youth feel proud of their newfound social confidence.