5 Tips for Family Meal Time
Dinnertime is a great opportunity for families to reconnect after long, busy days. Studies show that families that eat together reap numerous rewards—kids are more likely to do well in school, eat more veggies and even learn which fork to use! Today, Jackie Keller—nutrition expert, NutriFit founding director and author of Body After Baby—shares her top tips for enjoying meals together as a family, whether you’re struggling to find time to eat together or are getting bored with the same old routine!
1. Take small steps. Start with whatever meals are possible for you now. If it’s breakfast together on the weekends, fine. Don’t worry about what you can’t do, plan for what you can.
2. Get everyone involved. Mealtime conversations can begin while you’re getting food ready, getting the table readyand cleaning up. Involve the family in the whole process, and everyone will benefit not only from the conversation but also from the life skills that are learned as well.
3. Implement a no-noise policy. Turn off the television and the radio. Unplug the phone or put on the answering machine. Don’t let interruptions disrupt this special time.
4. Change it up. Try changing the location of the family meal once in awhile. How about an afternoon picnic, dinner on the patio or breakfast on the biggest bed? Laughter is the best mealtime music—keep the conversation light and avoid undue criticism.
5. Menu matters. Make the menu work for everyone by including family members in meal planning. Ask kids to help choose the meals you eat, include them in weekly meal and school lunch planning. They can even pick new fruits and vegetables to try at the grocery store. They’ll enjoy having a say in the process!
If you’re in need of dinner ideas the family will enjoy, check out these healthy recipes.
Are mealtimes a battle in your house? What have you done to make eating together more enjoyable?—Erin