At formal events, a children’s table is often created to provide a child-friendly atmosphere and a buffer zone for adult guests. The table may have simpler decorations, utensils, and a paper tablecloth with crayons. Older children may sit at adult tables if they demonstrate good manners. Seating adults at the children’s table is unlikely.
During many formal or semi-formal dining events, such as wedding receptions or award banquets, it’s not unusual to find separate seating for adults and small children. Party planners often create a so-called children’s table to meet the needs of the youngest guests, as well as provide a child-friendly atmosphere for adult guests. The children’s table can be in an area of the venue where adult supervision is still possible, but far enough away to provide a buffer zone. The tables themselves can be identical to those for adults, or they can be scaled down versions that are more suitable for children.
There may be some notable differences between the adult and children’s table, starting with the table decorations. While an adult table at a formal dinner party may be decorated with lit candles and elaborate decorative pieces, the children’s table may contain far fewer expensive fuels or centerpieces. While the adult table may contain a full set of cutlery and sharp knives, a children’s table might contain a much simpler setting with disposable utensils and rounded butter knives. The children’s table can also have a paper tablecloth and crayon set for the more creative set-up.
While there is no set upper age limit regarding a children’s table, many young teenage guests look forward to sitting at the adult tables. Demonstrating good table manners and general maturity can often promote an older child from the toddler table to at least one teen-only table. The children’s table is generally reserved for children who have not yet perfected their table manners or who have little interest in eating with adults. If alcoholic beverages are served or smoking is permitted, however, the children’s table can also act as a protective buffer from adult-level indulgences.
Some films with wedding themes have suggested circumstances where an immature or unpopular adult guest is purposely seated at the children’s table. While the sight of an adult guest surrounded by ten-year-olds may be entertaining, the chances of that happening in real life are relatively slim. Few party planners would ever consider seating adult guests at a designated children’s table, whether or not he or she has earned the privilege. Separating children and adults at formal dinner parties often works to the benefit of both camps. Children can enjoy their time away from the direct supervision of adults, and adult guests will be more comfortable having adult-level conversations or playing a different role than parents during the event.
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