Parenting tip

How to teach a child to come to dinner when called

It is important to teach your children proper table manners, such as coming to dinner when they are called.

Many parents encounter problems such as children not listening the first time, getting hooked on games or screens, or asking for "five more minutes," which makes it difficult to teach this habit without arguments.

Here are some tips that can help you train your children to come to dinner when called Apply them and track results in the app from Motikids..

Motikids tip: Coming to dinner when called

Practical tips

Use these ideas as a guide. What matters is consistency and positive reinforcement.

Establish schedules and routines

Establish regular times for family meals so that your children know when to expect dinner.
Create a pre-dinner routine that includes activities like washing hands and setting the table, which will help prepare them for dinnertime.
Maintain the routine consistently to cultivate the habit of responding to the first call, even on weekends.

Communicating expectations

Talk to your children about the importance of coming to dinner when they are called and explain the reasons behind this rule.
Let them know that you expect them to be present and ready for dinner when the food is ready.

Set an example

Be a role model for your children by arriving at the table on time when dinner is ready.
Show how much you value family dinners by actively participating and enjoying the moment with them.

Reinforce positive behavior

Reward and praise your children when they come to dinner on time and sit down at the table without needing reminders.
Provide additional incentives or privileges to reinforce this positive behavior.

Anticipate the transition and reduce distractions

Give them advance notice (e.g., 10 and 5 minutes before) so they can finish what they are doing and switch activities without frustration.
If there are screens or games, set a clear pause point (level, game, chapter) and a simple rule: when dinner is called, save and go to the table.
When possible, assign a small responsibility before sitting down (bring water, napkins) to make it easier for them to get up and arrive on time.

Make the most of Motikids

Record when they have completed this task so they earn stars.
When they have enough, you can give them a reward.
That will encourage them to keep completing it and act as an incentive.
Access the app.

To finish

With patience and consistency, you can teach your children the importance of coming to dinner when they are called and encourage healthy table habits. Remember that every child is unique and may require different approaches to learn this habit. Keep communication open and provide support as you guide your children in their development.

Other tip categories

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Frequently asked questions

What should I do if my son doesn't come to dinner when I call him for the first time?

Reinforce a clear and consistent routine, call calmly only once and apply a consequence agreed upon beforehand if they do not come, avoiding repeating the order many times.

How can I avoid arguments when they're playing games or using screens?

Give advance notice of time, establish a pause point (end of game or chapter) and a fixed shutdown rule at the call to dinner, maintaining a calm tone.

Is it advisable to use rewards to get them to come for dinner?

Yes, if they are moderate and temporary: praise, points or small privileges can help consolidate the habit, but it is advisable to gradually withdraw them as the behavior stabilizes.

What is an appropriate consequence if there is a continuous delay?

Choose a logical and related consequence, such as reducing screen time or turning off the computer early the next day, and always apply it consistently and without anger.

How can I coordinate with my partner or caregivers to make it work?

Agree on the same calling phrase, the same prior warnings, and the same consequences and reinforcements, so that the message is consistent and the child does not receive contradictory signals.

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