There’s something special about sitting around a dinner table that brings a family closer. There are many, real benefits to eating at the table.
Forms Strong Connections
Dinner time should be a safe place to just be yourself. Food seems to always bring people together and eating makes us happy, so take advantage of this time and talk with your kids about their day. Listen to them without interruption. By giving them your undivided attention, you are helping your child feel special inside, and letting them know that they truly matter.
Saves Money
Anytime a family eats out, they spend anywhere from $30 to $50, depending on the restaurant. Fast food has become very expensive and a sit-down restaurant is extra pricey. Sure, eating out for special occasions is fun, and it helps your child understand the culture of a public dining table, however, if you add up what you may be spending each month on fast food and outside dining, you may be very surprised at the bottom line. So, cooking at home may take longer and require planning ahead, however, it will add money back into your wallet.
Better for the Brain
Calorie intake is better controlled when you prepare meals at home. Meals prepared at home take on better portion size, which help with calorie intake by using healthier ingredients. You can also be sure to create a meal using all the food groups, like fruit, vegetables, protein and dairy, which helps with a child’s brain development.
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I challenge you to clean off the kitchen table and set a place for your family to eat. Without the TV, smart phones, or tablets, or even headphones, and just enjoy each other’s company. You may be amazed about what you learn from your own children, and what they learn about you.
Below are some great open-ended questions to talk about around the dinner table. You can ask your children, or they can even ask you. Have fun!
- If all the televisions in the world were broken and all the Wi-Fi went out for a whole month, how would you spend your time?
- If you could be a superhero, who would you be, and why?
- If you were given $50 to spend, and you had to spend it on someone who needed help, what would you buy?
- If you could be anyone in the world for a week, who would you choose, and why?
- If you could change your name, what would it be?
- If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
- If you had just one wish, what would you wish for, and why?