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Family Meal Time 09/26/2007 - By Angela Lamberson, MS, RD, LDN, CDE
Sitting down to dinner is a concept that many families have difficulty doing these days.
As a working mother of two active children, I fully understand how hard it can be for everyone to come together as a family for a dinner meal. At times, it seems like every night is full with after-work meetings, football practice or music lessons. However, making time for family meals is important. Take a look at the benefits it holds to children:
Teaches table manners and conversation skills
Improves eating habits, as children tend to eat more fruits and vegetables when meals are shared with their parents
Helps them develop a sense of security
Helps them feel connected to their family
Exposes them to new and different foods
Teaches them patience (waiting for dishes to be passed, waiting for all are finished before leaving the table or waiting their turn to talk
Provides a great time for laughter and fun
It should be noted that the benefits are just as important to teenage children as they are to infants who are just starting to eat solid foods. Research has shown that teens who eat regular family meals do better in all ways- nutritionally, socially, emotionally and academically. A University of Minnesota study found that teens that ate the most meals with family had the least tobacco, alcohol and marijuana use. They also had higher grade point averages, less depression and less suicide. Specifically, in teen girls, the more meals that were consumed with family, the less likely they were to use extreme weight control measures (Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2004;158:792-796).
Our family makes every effort that we can to schedule our dinner time around extra-curricular activities. When we turn off the television and light a candle, the kids know that it is time to unwind and come together for a meal (even if were having leftovers!). Find the time to enjoy more family meals, no matter how simple they may be. It will help your family eat better, stay healthy and grow closer!
It's Your Health. It's Your Life. Make That Change!
Angela Lamberson, MS, RD, LDN, CDE
Angela Lamberson is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator. Her husband, John is also a Registered Dietitian & Certified Diabetes Educator. They are the owners of Nutrition Pair, LLC and can be reached at nutritionpair.com.