As a mother of three boys, and a manners teacher, I see a lot of the same mistakes that are made by children when a dinner guest in someone’s house. Here are suggestions on what to remind your child about before he is a dinner guest at someone’s house.

 
Sit down at the table after the hostess does.
Remind your children that they do not sit down before the hostess. If there is not a lady of the house, then wait for the host to sit down before they are seated.
 
Start to eat after the hostess does.
No one should start eating until the hostess takes her first bite.
 
Eat what is served.
Try all new foods. Nothing is more insulting to the person who cooked the meal if it is not eaten.  Even if it is not your favorite food, at least try a few bites. Refrain from making bad faces or comments if it turns out to not taste good to you.  Try to look like you are enjoying the meal.
 
Keep the elbows off the table.
It is comfortable for whatever reason to rest your elbows on the table, but it is considered rude. Hands belong on your utensils, or in your lap or at your sides when not eating.
 
Say thank you after a meal.
Thank the host or hostess for the meal (even if it is your own mom or dad).  It takes a lot of time and preparation to cook a dinner for a family and even more for guests.  Show your gratitude of being included by thanking the cook for including you.
 
Leave with a good-bye and thank you.
Thank the host and/or hostess for having you over when you leave.  If you did not have a good time, you do not need to lie and say that you did. A simple thank you will suffice. A follow-up thank you note is always a nice gesture as well.