The Importance of Family Dinner
As fall sports pick up and extracurriculars are in full swing, getting everyone in the same room may have become increasingly complex. Navigating schedules is a challenging task. However, it is essential to prioritize family time, especially when it involves members meeting around the dinner table. Here are some reasonings behind why family dinner is crucial for promoting healthy minds and stronger relationships with your school-aged children
Family dinners can help to establish a routine and stability in a child's hectic life. Dinner time provides a concrete time for children to voice their thoughts, concerns, and feelings in a safe, familiar, and supportive environment. This open communication path can promote bonding and connection, feeling a sense of belonging to a unit more significant than themselves. It also facilitates perspective-taking, open-mindedness, and respect for other opinions. It is also a routine setting where parents can model positive behaviors, like table manners and friendly social interactions. Engaging in meaningful conversations also educates children on essential skills such as turn-taking, active listening, and making polite conversation. By incorporating these values repeatedly, a child is more likely to integrate them into their life outside of the home.
Family dinners often center around home cooked meals with different health benefits than a restaurant or ready-made meals.Research indicates that certain foods can boost concentration and reduce brain fog. This can be an opportunity for parents to increase exposure to healthy meals and eating habits. In addition to improving one’s academic performance, proper nutrition has been shown to contribute to better mental health outcomes. In addition, by learning recipes and cooking techniques, children learn essential life skills as well as family traditions that they can appreciate forever. While home cooked meals aren’t always an option due to schedules and time constraints, it can be something to consider when possible.
Finally, research has shown that children who regularly have family dinners are less likely to engage in risky behaviors. Required, scheduled time with family encourages young adults to sit with their support system and realign with their values. It reinstates a support system where they can turn to help or guidance and discourage behaviors that do not serve your child well.
Engaging in meaningful conversations stimulates a child’s cognitive, emotional, and behavioral development. Giving them an opportunity to reflect on their day and show gratitude. Therefore, it is worth noting that family dinners can have positive effects on a child's mental health and overall wellbeing.