Family Mealtimes Build Healthier, Stronger Families

September is Family Mealtime Month.With today’s busy schedules and constant distractions, the act of sharing family meals offers families many benefits that extend far beyond basic nutrition.

Family meals promote healthy habits and well-being. When families eat together, it is easier to control what is on the menu. Home cooked meals tend to be much healthier and more balanced than takeout food or processed foods.

Families prioritizing shared meals are more likely to include vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains which contribute to overall healthier nutrition. Children who grow up eating family meals are more likely to develop positive attitudes toward healthy food choices.

Consistent family mealtimes also create a supportive environment where children and adolescents have lower rates of depression and anxiety. The comforting routine of sitting down together to eat creates a sense of stability and security.

Research shows family mealtime helps build stronger bonds and skills by connecting on a deeper level. Sharing family meals provides a unique setting for family members to engage in meaningful conversations, share experiences, and laugh together which creates a sense of belonging and stronger emotional ties. It offers the opportunity to be present in the moment with each other without outside distractions, such as digital devices. It is also during this time that values, family recipes, and cultural traditions are passed down. Family mealtimes offer the opportunity to share stories, teach children how to meal prep and cook, table manners and table setting, and learn patience.

One final benefit of family mealtimes is children who eat regular meals with their families tend to perform better in school academically, have the ability to navigate social situations, and develop positive relationships with their peers.

“We are excited to launch Family Mealtime Awareness Month and engage with our community,” said Sally Garrett, Fayette County Extension Agent-Family and Community Health. “By working together, we can promote the many benefits of sitting down around the family dinner table and making long lasting memories. It is a time to celebrate the many benefits offered through Family Mealtime one-meal-at time.”

This September, take advantage of all the benefits that Family Mealtime has to offer. By considering:

• Increasing one more meal at home each week.

• Turning off all digital devices, television and computer during shared mealtime

• Including children in the planning and cooking of family meals.

• Making family mealtime fun by including conversation starters, such as: o What is your favorite thing we do as a family? What was the funniest thing that happened to you today?

For more information or to register for upcoming Family Mealtime programs contact the Fayette County Extension office at (979) 968-5831.