This past year, I opted to give my students a unique kind of Valentine's Day party instead of the traditional ones that include candy and craziness. Our party had a purpose. The classroom setting was set up like that of a restaurant. The goal was to teach the kids table manners. So, to "set the stage", the tables were covered with table cloths, cute matching Valentine's Day cups and plates, and was completed with a place setting of plasticware. I then decorated the tables with some holiday-appropriate confetti and made place cards for each child's seat. Our menu consisted of some healthy items that also provided some substenance-popcorn, fresh fruit, string cheese, and jello. This may seem like a strange choice of food, but I wanted a healthy menu of things the kids liked (they voted) and I was contending with a tree nut allergy.

I have had this kind of party in the past and it is always a hit. Parents definitely appreciate it. I always plan ahead to have my kids dress the part by having the girls wear skirts or dresses and the boys wear a nice buttoned-down shirt with pants. It really is true that a person wil act the way they feel in what they are wearing. When the party begins, I have the children enter with classical music playing and as they find their seats, the boys practice pulling out the chairs for the young ladies. Throughout the party we talk about and practice how to use our napkins, how to sit at the table, and how to say, "yes, please" or "no, thank you" when being served the food items. Of course, we talk about how to eat our food (not with our mouths open!) and the appropriate voice level when talking to people you are dining with. We even learn how to make a toast. Notice I put "a" in bold. I don't want anyone thinking we make toast. You know, because that would be weird!

Please check out the site to view a copy of the letter that could be used to send to parents before you try this type of party. Also, don't be afraid to ask your parents to supply the goodies! Many of my items for the table settings came from the dollar store. I also had some parents donate some really cute V-day things from Target this year. Gotta love Target!

Don't forget to come back and write about your experience with this type of party! Good luck!