When we have down time in class (while foods are in the oven, etc.), there is always something to learn.  Sometimes we try to guess ingredients or learn to set the table or any number of activities.  I have found that the students will do just about anything if it involves some sort of game.  Thus, the "table setting game" was born.

First, I set the place setting the way it should look.  I tell them what each piece is used for and explain the order of usage.  (For those of you who need a refresher, Emily Post's website has a nifty diagram that illustrates a proper table setting with descriptions of each piece.)  Then, I mess it up.  Initially, as a group and then individually, each child has to try to put the table setting back in order.  The next child may fix a plate or a piece of silverware if they think it isn't in the right place.  Kids as young as 3 can successfully complete a basic setting.

We come back to this game again and again, so they will learn from repetition.  And, it's quite popular.  They always ask me "When are we going to play the table setting game again?"  When their parents pick them up, the kids inevitably ask their parents if they can set the table at home.  How great is that?

Check out the kids in action...