Getting your little humans to eat dinner like civilized beings is no small feat. From flying peas to artistic ketchup designs on the table, mealtime can feel chaotic. But teaching table manners to toddlers and preschoolers is possible — and it’s worth it. Here are 7 realistic, funny, and practical tips to help your kids sit, chew, and say “please” without losing your mind (or your napkins).

Picture this: you've made a meal—maybe even chopped vegetables!—you plate it up for your toddler, sit down, and two seconds later… SPLAT. Peas on the floor. Sauce on your shirt. And your toddler? Beaming like they've won gold in the Olympic food-flinging finals.

Let’s dig in. (Preferably with a spoon, not your floor mop.)