Bringing Back Family Mealtime

Families today are busy. Work and other commitments keep many families on the run. Uninterrupted family time is a challenge, if not a rare occurrence. One strategy that can help families find time to be together is to make family meals a priority.

Some may react by saying, “I do not have time to cook meals every night.” Meals that take a lot of time to prepare are not realistic. Instead, plan meals that are quick, inexpensive and nutritious so that family members relax and enjoy each other’s company. Research has shown that when children experience family mealtime on a regular basis, they increase fruit and vegetable intake and decrease soft drink intake. Other studies have suggested a link between regular family mealtime and positive academic and behavioral performance. Children do less well in school, do not learn language skills and score lower on achievement tests when not routinely part of family mealtimes.

Here are four easy steps to help make family mealtime a priority:

• Plan - Set aside about 30 minutes one time each week to plan your meals for the coming week. Start by keeping a list of your family’s favorite meals. Every week or so, consider trying one new recipe that adds variety, yet is quick to prepare.
• Shop – Make a grocery list based on the meals for the week and shop regularly. Many families find that a weekly shopping schedule works well.
• Prepare – Encourage all family members to help with the meal preparation. When children are involved in food preparation they are more likely to try new foods.
• Eat together– Sit together at the table. Eating meals together helps your child develop a healthy attitude toward food. Create a positive, enjoyable environment and schedule meals at regular times when everyone can be together uninterrupted.
  Mealtime is a perfect opportunity for parents and children to catch up on the day’s events. Adults can use this time to serve as role models by enjoying a wide variety of simply