The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends shared dinnertimes as often as possible as a way to strengthen families and support children’s development. Many national studies, conducted by Harvard University, the YMCA and others, have concluded that these dinnertimes can forge better family relationships and enhance personal growth – not just in terms of nutrition but in terms of feeling a sense of belonging, stability and family connection.
Make it a priority to share meals.
Why not challenge the whole family to eat at least one meal together each day for four days a week for the next two weeks? You might be surprised how easy it is to establish that routine.
Declare these meal times as sacred.
Set a start time and end time. Don’t watch television. Don’t answer cell phones or reply to text messages. Sit at the table and have uninterrupted conversation while enjoying healthy food together.
Be flexible about when.
These meals don’t have to be formal or at the same time each day. They can be take-out or eaten in a restaurant, as long as the focus is on talking and sharing time, not just rushing through the meal. If someone can’t make it for dinner, reschedule for breakfast. Be flexible but stick to it.
