Did you know that how often a family eats dinner together is a powerful indicator of whether a teen is likely to perform better academically? In fact, a study by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) also showed that regular family mealtimes might actually have an effect on whether or not a teen is likely to smoke, drink, or use drugs.

Of course, common sense tells us that just spending time together as a family provides more opportunities to communicate with each other and discuss problems, concerns, certain situations, and even share good news! But all that aside, there is just something special about family mealtimes that nourishes the body and feeds the soul. Bonds are strengthened and great memories are made around the table.

Children Crave Order
A set time for meals is a very good thing for everyone if at all possible. Children like to know what to expect, and they crave order and routine. Plus it sets the tone for the rest of the evening when the meal is eaten at a decent hour, the dishes are washed, and the kitchen is put in order in a timely fashion. Then the family can relax and enjoy doing fun and profitable activities together before the bedtime routine begins.

The Statistics and The Solution
But believe it or not, recent surveys have shown that less than half of the families in the United States actually sit down to a meal together on a regular basis. Seventy-three percent of American adults think eating meals together is important, yet on average only forty-three percent of Americans follow through. And sadly, many of these meals are eaten in front of the television, a practice that can lead to mindless overeating and obesity.

The solution?

Commitment! Just do it!

Families today have lots going on. Parents have work obligations. Many children are involved in extracurricular and after school activities. Life can be hectic. However, many families have found creative ways to incorporate regular family mealtimes. It can be done, because it’s too important not to find a workable solution. Plus, if families are too busy to have regular mealtimes together, at least most of the time, they may just be too busy! The ideal scenario? Two sit-down meals together every day. Reality? Shoot for one meal together—either breakfast or dinner.

Tips and Ideas
Here are a few fun and random ideas to make family mealtimes meaningful and memorable:

1. Consider using your best dishes sometimes—just because!

2. Turn off the television and turn on the answering machine.

3. Presentation of food is extremely important. Even a simple sandwich cut into triangles and arranged as a ‘butterfly’ with carrot antennae will bring a smile to a child’s face.

4. Have an international meal night once a month.

5. Have a backwards meal. Start with dessert, then the main course, and finish with a salad.

6. For that matter, have a backwards day. Have a typical main course meal in the morning and have breakfast for the nightly meal. This might be a ‘Saturday’ kind of thing to do.

7. Have a theme dinner and have family members come to the table dressed accordingly. For example, have a pioneer supper or some cowboy grub.

8. Light candles. Of course, the usual safety precautions apply.

9. Play soft, soothing music in the background. Consider
classical.

10. Encourage and teach good manners and basic table etiquette. When you are eating away from home or with friends, you’ll be glad you did!

The possibilities are endless, but no matter how you slice it, dice it, cook it or serve it up, the family mealtime should be a number one priority for the whole gang. It takes planning, effort and commitment to keep this special event on the ‘front burner’…but the results will definitely be ‘tasty’!

~Adapted from The Home Haven: Creating An Enriched Family Culture (Amy’s current work in progress).

Amy's Note: Obviously, since we homeschool, it's easier for us to adapt to making regular 'sit down' meals together a reality. Except for lunchtime, when Daddy is at work, we have the option of eating all of our meals together. And when we pray, we hold hands around the table. But I still think it's important for ALL families to make mealtimes a priority! When the children are grown and gone, the opportunity will be lost. Just make it happen!  What are some of YOUR mealtime traditions?

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