This depends on your child Once they are sitting at the table. 1.Using a fork - utensil control 2.Using a napkin 3.Asking to pass things not reaching 4.Around 3-4 chewing with mouth closed or starting to understand the idea and not talking with the mouth full 5.Continuing to develop utensil usage 6.ages 4 -5 continuing of the chewing with mouth closed and not full Keeping napkin on the lap 7.ages 5-6 all of the above continues but adding in conversation and hand positioning depending on how you eat at home. The best time would be once your child is sitting with you at the table. It’s never too early nor too late. The key is to be consistent have realistic expectations, and encourage age-appropriate. It's never too early to start teaching children what utensils to use, how to wipe their faces, and which foods they can eat with their hands or not. How to keep a napkin on their lap and use it and utensil control. There are different manners to focus on in each age group.