Etiquette: Executive Director Asha Waterhouse is pleased to announce the addition of two newly added Etiquette Classes to fall programming at KYDC.

Move over Miss Manners and Emily Post – there’s a new instructor in town.

Asha Waterhouse, Kinzua Youth Development Center executive director, has taken on the task of instructing Warren area youths in etiquette and manners. Raised in the south and having traditional southern manners instilled throughout her formative years, Waterhouse says “Etiquette and manners have always been my passion.”

Feeling that the basics of etiquette like handshaking and making eye contact while speaking to another are missing within many youth, largely due to technology, Waterhouse will be offering two etiquette classes that will meet at the center beginning in October.

Previously instructing children in etiquette and manners within a church setting, Waterhouse has self-written two curriculums tailored to meet the needs of the separate classes being offered. Waterhouse says the idea of holding these etiquette classes really took off. Having first only offered the class for high school ages, Waterhouse was inundated with requests from parents wanting a class for their younger children. Now, having added the second class Waterhouse said she continues receiving requests for classes to be added for younger children. Even adults have expressed interest, she said.

Etiquette classes for high school juniors and seniors as well as students in fourth through sixth grades are designed to teach the essentials of dining and social etiquette. Broken down into four sessions the class focuses on practical skills like proper table manners, respectful communication, and professional presentation. Through interactive lessons and practice, participants will learn to navigate social settings with confidence, preparing them for fine dining, social events, or daily interactions.

Both classes will culminate in a special celebration.

In keeping with the mission of the Kinzua Youth Development Center’s for programming and class costs to never be a hindrance to participation, etiquette classes are free of charge and open to all area youths both male and female. There is still time to register for the classes which begin on Oct. 1 for high schoolers and Oct. 8 for younger grades. For class registration or further information visit the KYDC website at www.kinzuawrestingclub.com.