As we have become a society of working parents’ quick finger foods are becoming the norm for supper. As our children eat more burgers, French fries, chicken nuggets and pizzas the correct holding and use of cutlery is being lost. Area elementary school resource center directors contacted the Madison County Cooperative Extension Service EFNEP Assistant. Nutrition Lessons teaching food groups and trying new unfamiliar choices along with manners and etiquette were taught. Students practiced proper holding and use of utensils for cutting meat.  Children used bagels as pretend meat and learned how to handle situations if accidents happen.

 Fifth graders were taken to a local upscale restaurant to use their new skills. New food choices were tasted, meat was eaten with confidence. When a drink was knocked over at a table the student didn’t panic he threw his napkin over spill and motioned for a waiter. As the children boarded the bus for home the EFNEP assistant was stopped by a waiter where he exclaimed how nice their manners were and how well they did.