A good understanding of Chinese and Western etiquette can assist young people to socialise more comfortably in cosmopolitan Hong Kong.
Many local parents recognise the potential future benefits for their children and are enrolling them in Western-style etiquette classes in increasing numbers.
'Demand in Western etiquette classes for children has been increasing year by year,' says Gordon Wong, executive trainer at Di and Cooke. 'Back in the old days, we learned etiquette from our parents when we were small. However, young parents nowadays are not able to devote that much time to educating their kids at home because of their long working hours.
Classes run for two hours and include topics such as using napkins and tableware appropriately, correct sitting posture at a table, biting and chewing politely, food and knowledge of courses and social manners at the table.
The classes cost HK$500 for a parent and a child. This includes a three-course meal, during which children are expected to demonstrate what they have learned.
'Learning Western-style etiquette can empower a young person's self-esteem and self-confidence in communicating with the world around them,' says Claudia Chow, brand manager at Franche.