Encouraging Family Meal Times

A family dinner time is so important and yet so many people don't take the time to have a family meal on a regular basis. There are so many obstacles like busy schedules, work, after school activities, and general evening chaos. Maybe if we understood the many benefits to family meal times we would take the extra time and effort to make it happen on a regular basis.

According to Washington State University, there are many benefits to a regular family mealtime. Some of these benefits include better communication, better school performance, better adjustment, and better nutrition. Wow, that's a lot of life long benefits.

Communication is improved by spending time together every day. This is an opportunity to talk, find out what's happening with your child at school and with friends, and build relationship. Studies have shown that although this might be difficult at first, given some time children will cherish this time with parents, even the teenagers. Sources such as Web MD feel that this increased communication and relationship will reduce the use of cigarettes, drugs, and alcohol among teenagers. Hint: If you ask your child about school and you don't get an answer, think about what your asking and try to ask a more specific question. When I ask my daughter what did you do at school she says, "I don't know". When I ask her, "What was in your tub today?" I usually get a lengthy answer that goes into her friends and more. 

Studies have also shown that children eat more vegetables and healthier options when they sit down together with their family. This assumes that the family meal consists of a healthy meal. This can lead to healthier lifestyles and promote well being. These healthy habits learned at home translate into healthier eating outside the home. With the growing epidemic of over-weight and unhealthy lifestyles this is important to consider.

When you sit down at the table for dinner there is a lot more going on than just eating together. You are building relationships and teaching your children about how to work in a group and be healthy. If you have young children you are setting the stage for success and helping them find more success in the future.

You can read more about the Washington State University study as well as get helpful information on how to make healthy meals and have a quality dinner time. Also check out the 10 Benefits of Healthy Dinners from Web MD.

Did you know October is National Eat Together; Eat Better month? Take some time in the upcoming month to eat together as a family, have meaningful conversations, and nutritious meals. Your kids will thank you.

What do you do to promote a family dinner time? Is it just too much to think about, something you do once in a while, or a regular thing at your house?  Leave a comment and let us know how you do it. We want to support each other as we raise the next generation.