A few years ago my college roommates and I, along with a friend from the upstairs apartment, regularly cooked dinner together on weeknights. We each had an assigned night to cook the meal for the rest of the group and any guests. It was a fun opportunity for of us to show off our cooking talents and share in the responsibilities. Everyone enjoyed the delicious meals together.
While dinner around the table with college friends may not seem like that big of a deal, we enjoyed the quality time together. At the time I really appreciated a decrease in the cooking load and the ability to spend time with friends. I didn’t realize that a gesture that seemed so small could be so meaningful. Many organizations have studied this very topic and what follows will provide you with a greater insight as to why that quality time around the table can be so valuable.
Spending time over a meal allows family members to connect with one another, communicate about family happenings, and give others time and attention. Eating together can provide a vehicle for carrying on valued family traditions. More than half of families with children in the United States share a meal five or more times a week; however, 30-35% of families often eat less than three meals a week together. In today’s ever-changing, fast-paced society of working men and women and single-parent homes, finding time to gather for a meal might be challenging. With this, one source recommends that not every meal needs to be a sit-down extravaganza, but most importantly make the meals frequent, fun, and family-centered.
Consistent and frequent family meal times can be especially important in households with children. Such an activity gives regular structure and routine to the child’s day. For young children, family meals have a positive impact on language acquisition and literacy development. Families who eat together are more healthful in their eating habits and parents can serve as role models about moderate portion sizes, tasting new foods, and stopping when full. Parents can be aware of and monitor their children’s moods, behaviors, and activities with friends. Additionally, benefits are observed in decreased substance use or delinquency, heightened personal and social well-being, and better academic performance. Adults should avoid making meal time a disciplinary occasion and limit distractions such as the TV or computer.
With summer in full swing, pull out that grill, grab some fresh fruits and vegetables from your garden or a local market, gather your family, and enjoy a relaxing dinner together. What are you waiting for?
Resources
https://thefamilydinnerproject.org/about-us/benefits-of-family-dinners/
www.ag.ndsu.edu/eatsmart/eat-smart.-play-hard.-magazines-1/2009-eat-smart-play-hard-magazine/test-item
www.human.cornell.edu/pam/outreach/upload/Family-Mealtimes-2.pdf
By: Elizabeth Mumaw, MS, Lifeguard/Swim Instructor/Fitness Specialist at Valley Health Wellness & Fitness Center
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