Shrewsbury students learn the ‘P’s and Q’s’ of dining

By Melanie Petrucci, Senior Community Reporter

Shrewsbury – Manners do matter. Some may say that that they are old fashioned and antiquated but six youth ranging from grades two to seven (or maybe their parents) thought that they were still relevant in today’s society. The students participated in a special Dining Etiquette class offered by the Shrewsbury Parks & Recreation Department held Feb. 13 at Sherwood Middle School.

During the class, which was taught by Nikki Sawhney, director and founder of the New England School of Protocol, the students were taught various elements of dining etiquette. They learned proper napkin usage, all about the place setting and the bread and butter plate, appropriate table conversation, correct way to eat soup, use of silverware, passing food at the table, disposal of unwanted food and so much more.

“I come from a different country, Bangladesh… so we have different culture. It is better to learn by someone who knows better than I so that is why I sent him here,” remarked Mohammed Hossen as he checked in on his son.

At the start of the class, the students began with polite introductions as Sawhney set the example. Then, using only first names participants followed suit.

Before moving into the specifics of dining protocol, Sawhney explained the importance of manners.

“Having good manners is not just about how you feel It’s about how you make everyone around you feel,” Sawhney explained.

Important lessons that never go out of style.