Silver Spoon -
I am SO bummed you're in California! Your classes sound great, and it's reasonably priced. I'D like to take them--especially the dancing!
Most people from my generation (40's) have NO concept of this kind of thing for themselves, unless they were raised by an older generation (my parents were born in the 1920's and as a result I benefitted from that). And younger parents? For the most part they're clueless (I know, I'm stereotyping). It's easily seen in the behavior of their kids. My older son (11 years) benefitted from my parents influence, and as a result he's very comfortable with being polite, behaving appropriately in public and greetings and small talk with adults. His younger sister, alas, came along after my parents died, and I admittedly am not as good as they were at being consistant with practicing the public behavior thing. I think the reason most people, let alone kids, are leery of the etiquette thing is because it really isn't "the norm" any more. The funny thing is once you know how to conduct yourself, you realize it's really not a big deal. It gives you so much self-confidence and helps you help others feel comfortable.

I taught in Japan for a while, and part of my job involved teaching "life skills" to my adult students. Luckily for my students dancing was NOT part of my curriclum! You'd definitely have to change your marketing for the kid/parent crowd. Unfortunately things like this are hard to do as electives UNLESS there's some sort of reward at the end. I could see kids signing up for this, especially in upper grades, if they'd get some sort of boost to their average. The trick I'd think, is getting the potential participants to realize it's not a drudgery and once you know it you have such a great edge over your average Joe. I'm thinking getting the parents WITH the kids would be a great idea. Believe me, I know plenty of parents who wuld benefit from this more than their kids would!

My son can make my crazed at times, but he knows his manners and knows how to behave in public--it's amazing how little things can make your life so much easier. We don't make a big deal out of it, and he's certainly no Eddie Haskell (am I dating myself?), but I admit I take great pride when adults complement him, and I know he likes it too.

I'm thinking about asking our principal if we can have someone come to our school to teach our kids about proper etiquette. Our kids seem to have poor manners and bad habits in the lunchroom. We shall see what happens.

Hi Ann - I am a PTO Mom and just taught "etiquette for kids" for the first time at our school this year. It was a fun experience and the kids had a fantastic time. I have considered making a business out of it, but we shall see.
My suggestion would be to offer a small one-evening class for students. Because of the limited time, you would probably have to focus on dining etiquette. We charged $25 a head for our class and ALL proceeds went to the PTO. The food was provided by the PTO Moms. I think to get in the door you should contact PTOs, not the Principals. If you offer a one-night class then parents can meet you, see what you are about, and then maybe be more interested in a longer course. Whatever you charge for the class, a portion of the proceeds should go to the PTO.

When I taught the classes, I noticed that all of the kids (especially the boys) walked through the door looking absolutely miserable. I made them dress up so that might have had something to do with it. Anyway, when the kids left at the end of the night they were excited and happy and I had a tremendous amount of positive feedback from parents. They said their kids told them to sign them up for the classes next year. Many parents even requested I teach an etiquette class for adults.

The problem is that etiquette does not sound fun to kids and many parents these days will not force their children to attend these things as when we were children. But pushing your child to attend a one-night event is much easier than getting them to attend a 7 week program.

So in sum, I think you should offer some one-night introductory classes to meet the kids and parents and get in front of people. Also, don't forget to donate a portion of proceeds to the PTO. I am glad to see that etiquette is making a comeback!

Good Luck

Hello-
My name is Ann and I am the owner of Silver Spoon Etiquette & Cotillion. I have eagerly been trying to get the word out about our new Cotillion program in Souther California contacting around 100 school Principals... all PTSA members... etc.

I am getting a really good response from regular advertising but I have only received 1 response from 1 High School that we are in the process of doing an "Etiquette Prom Fair" with. I have offered my services complimentary to give classes, assemblies, etc.

Any PTO / PTSA members have any ideas how I can better reach parents & schools? Do you think Manners, Etiquette, & Cotillion is still needed? What about this new SCRIP program?

Our Cotillion Program is a 7 week long program that teaches greetings & introductions, the basics of how to tie a neck tie, extensive table manners & restaurant etiquette, as well as Ballroom dance with a modern twist... The Waltz, Foxtrot, & Line Dance. Students must attend class in formal attire. The fee is $190 for all 7 classes, a 3 course formal plated dinner, graduation ball, & dance.

Please send me your comments & suggestions... I really appreciate it!

Thank you!
Ann D.