The Importance of Family Dinner

According to a Columbia University survey, teenagers who eat with their families at least five times a week are more likely to get better grades in school and much less likely to have substance abuse problems.
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An International study found that family meal time has a more positive influence on emotional and intellectual development on children and teens than sports or additional time in school.

Bonnie D. Parkin, former Relief Society General President of my church said, “The dinner table is the place to connect with each other, to share our daily activities, listen and encourage each other, and even laugh together.”
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As parents, we want to connect with our kids. Surprisingly, our kids want to connect with us. They want to know we care about them and what they are doing. They not only want our support, they want our approval and respect. Dinner time should not be a time to criticize or reprimand – it should be a time to share experiences, opinions and bond as a family.

I know, it's a scheduling nightmare in today's world. But that is exactly why you need to do it. If you are not doing it, do it. I promise you'll be glad you did. If you are doing it, value it.

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