Polished & Poised

Weekly Topics and Content

 

Week 1: First Impressions & Personal Presentation

• The importance of a first impression

• Body language basics: posture, eye contact, facial expressions

• Grooming and dress code expectations

• Role-play: greetings and introductions

 

Week 2: Respect & Everyday Manners

• Showing respect to adults, peers, and oneself

• “The Magic Words”: please, thank you, excuse me, etc.

• Interrupting politely and active listening

• Tone of voice and speaking with kindness

• Practicing scenarios: handling awkward or annoying situations gracefully

 

Week 3: Table Manners & Dining Etiquette (Part 1)

• Setting a basic table

• Sitting properly and posture at the table

• Using utensils correctly

• How to pass food and wait your turn

 

Week 4: Table Manners & Dining Etiquette (Part 2)

• Dining do’s and don’ts

• What to do if you dislike the food

• Practice with a multi-course mock meal

• Napkin etiquette, excuse-me moments, and polite conversation at the table

 

Week 5: Social Situations & Conversations

• How to start, maintain, and end a conversation politely

• Giving and receiving compliments

• Being a gracious guest and host

• Role-play: phone etiquette, text/email tone, and RSVPs

 

Week 6: Conflict Resolution & Digital Etiquette

• Handling teasing, gossip, and exclusion with grace

• Standing up for yourself kindly and assertively

• Social media manners and screen-time etiquette

• Practicing empathy and kindness online

 

Week 7: Public Behavior & Outings

• Etiquette in public places (restaurants, stores, theaters, church, etc.)

• Elevator, escalator, and door-holding etiquette

• Behavior when representing your family or school in public

• Field trip or outing to practice etiquette in real-life settings (museum, café, etc.)

 

Week 8: Final Tea or Etiquette Dinner + Certificate Celebration

• Formal sit-down tea or dinner to demonstrate dining etiquette

• Students practice greeting, conversation, posture, and table manners

• Certificate ceremony and recognition of growth

• Optional parent observation and photo opportunity