Most of of have heard that family meal times are important, but do you know why? Below are just some of the reasons why experts recommend us try try to have family meal times whenever possible!

• With more selective eaters, children are more likely to try new foods
• Children can see parents modeling appropriate meal time behaviors
• Gives children and parents time to talk and connect
• Studies have shown an increase in vocabulary and academic performance
• Children learn table manners
• Better mental health
• Higher self-esteem
• Lower incidence of obesity, overweight, and eating disorders
• Lower stress
• Create positive relationship with food and with family
• Create healthy eating habits

Ways to incorporate family meal time:

• Make 1x/ week your first goal.  Slowly build up to at least 3x/week.
• If sports practices make for a late evening, try enjoy dashboard diner in the car
• If one parent works late, have the other parent eat with the child(ren)
• Plan meals in advance (crock pot, grilling, casseroles, etc) to accommodate your family’s schedule
• Keep it simple- sandwiches, pasta, soups, etc.
• It doesn’t have to be dinner, it could be breakfast or lunch or an afterschool snack.  It’s the time together that matters.
• Involve your children in planning, shopping, and/or preparation
• Ask suggestions for meal ideas; perhaps have fun with theme nights!

Tips for family meal fun:

• Play a family friendly version of “Would you Rather…”
• Utilize Table Topics (order on Amazon or create your own)
• Avoid distractions (focus on conversation and the people sitting at the table)
• Ask your family about their day or the craziest dream they have ever had
• Change up the scene: have a picnic in your backyard or build a blanket tent in a bedroom and eat in there
• Have your child create a menu for the evening
• Use story stones

References: 

Eating Family Meals Together at Home | Media and Youth | JAMA Pediatrics

Benefits of Family Meals: Eat Together, Thrive Together - HealthyChildren.org

Why the Family Meal Is Important - Stanford Medicine Children's Health

Eating Together at Family Meals: Benefits and Tips