Manners guides
Welcoming guests at home
Jobs kids can do when guests come over, from opening the door to serving a drink.
Ages 4 to 12
From about age 4, children can help welcome guests: open the door with you, say hello and take coats. By 8 they can offer drinks, show guests around and help host a meal.
Try this week with your kids
Noki suggests a first week of quests and rewards for your kids. You change what you like before you start.
Why it matters
Hosting teaches kids to think about others' comfort. Having a real job also helps shy kids feel more at ease.
What to expect by age
- Ages 3 to 4
- Come to the door with you and wave hello.
- Ages 5 to 6
- Say hello and take coats to the coat rack.
- Ages 7 to 8
- Offer a drink and show guests where to sit.
- Ages 9 to 10
- Help prepare snacks and serve them.
- Ages 11 to 12
- Introduce guests and help host the meal.
Ways to practice
- Give each kid a hosting job before guests arrive.
- Do a 5-minute family tidy together before the doorbell rings.
- Practice the welcome with a pretend doorbell.
Common mistakes
Leaving kids with nothing to do.
Try instead: A clear job makes them feel part of the visit.
Pushing a shy child to perform.
Try instead: Let them help in the background first.
