Abstract: An apparatus for educating children with special educational needs about how to set a table includes a mat having emblems thereon indicative of the locations for proper placement of a napkin, a plate, flatware and a drinking vessel. The emblems are each filled-in outlines of the item to be placed thereon and colored a distinctive primary color. Also included is a set of napkin, plate, flatware and a drinking vessel for a child with special educational needs to place on the mat. The napkin, plate, flatware and drinking vessel have colors that match the corresponding color of the emblem therefor on the mat. A teaching criteria manual has instruction for a teacher to guide the student in the process of setting the table by using the matching colors and shapes to appropriately place the napkin, plate, flatware and drinking vessel on the mat.