From home, to school, and anywhere that life takes them, teaching manners to your children at an early age can help promote cultural awareness.

Language expert and CEO of Early Lingo Caryn Antonini explains that once kids have a grasp on what’s expected of them in their own culture, they can begin to explore others.

Start your child with the basics:

— Don’t interrupt

— Don’t talk with your mouth full or chew with your mouth open

— Say please and thank you

— Be respectful

— Keep your elbows off the table and feet off of furniture

Share manners with your child from other cultures:

China – a light burp at the end of a meal is a compliment to the chef, and indicates that you’ve enjoyed the food.

Japan – slurping noodles in acceptable.

Korea – Always accept a plate or glass with both hands as it shows respect.

Ethiopia – ‘Gursha’ is a tradition where people feed each other by hand, which builds trust and social bonds between those sharing food.

Middle East – remove your shoes upon entering a house as they’re considered filthy.

Thailand – people eat with a spoon in the right hand and a fork in the left.

Germany – be punctual!

Brazil – don’t arrive early to an event where food or drink is served, you will appear greedy. Dress with pizzazz!