University of Florida

The Importance of Family Dinners


Introduction

Busy schedules held by both parents and children have turned “family dinners” into a thing of the past. Many parents are unaware of what is lost by not having regular family dinners together, and conversely, they are unaware of the many benefits eating together brings.

Research suggests that having dinner together as a family at least four times a week has positive effects on the development of adolescents. Family dinners have been linked to a lower risk of obesity, substance abuse, eating disorders, and increased chance of graduating from high school.

Conversation

First and foremost, eating dinner together as a family provides the opportunity for conversation. For parents, this provides the arena to teach healthy communication without common distractions from cell phones, television, computers and personal music players. By engaging your children in conversation you teach them how to listen as well as provide them with a chance to speak and express their own opinions. This is important because it allows the child to have an active voice within the family.

Conversations at the dinner table expand the vocabulary and reading ability of children—regardless of socioeconomic status. Family dinners allow every member of the family to discuss his or her day and share any exciting news. Healthy communication brings people together. Try these tips:

  • Discuss the child’s day. Express interest in your child’s daily life.
  • Discuss current events. Bring up news appropriate to the age of your child.
  • Let all family members talk. Be an active listener and be sure your child learns to listen as well.
  • Encourage your child to participate. Do not underestimate your child’s ability to hold a conversation.

Developmental Assets

Family mealtime provides a sense of security and togetherness that helps nurture children into healthy and well-rounded adults. Internal assets such as having a positive outlook on personal future and a positive identity are linked to the frequency of family dinners. High-risk behaviors, such as smoking, are less frequent among families who eat meals together more often. Children who eat dinner together with their family are more likely to understand, acknowledge, and follow the boundaries and expectations set by their parents. Self-esteem, motivation, and a decrease in high-risk behaviors are all related to the amount of time spent with family—especially during family dinners. To make the most of your family mealtime, follow these guidelines:

  • Turn off television, radio, music players and the like during dinner.
  • Have family dinners at least 4 or 5 times a week.
  • Enjoy positive conversation during the meal.
  • Spend an hour eating dinner, conversing, and cleaning up together.

Nutritional Benefits

Eating dinner together as a family encourages healthy eating habits and provides a life-long model for children who are more likely to take these habits with them into adulthood. Studies show family dinners increase the intake of fruits and vegetables, which provide a variety of beneficial nutrients and dietary fiber. Studies have also shown that families who eat dinner together tend to eat fewer fried foods and drink less soda. Family meal frequency is also linked to the intake of protein, calcium, and some vitamins. Here are some mealtime suggestions:

  • Cook as a family and include everyone in the preparation process.
  • Experiment with fun recipes.
  • Remake old recipes with healthier alternatives.
  • Have theme-cuisine nights such as Italian, Mexican, or Caribbean.
  • Know your children’s favorites and offer them on a rotating monthly basis.
  • Create your own recipes.

Conclusion

Eating dinner together as a family at least 4 nights a week creates an engaging, supportive environment that teaches children healthy habits in diet, socialization, and interaction within their family. Parents also benefit from family mealtime by the opportunity to teach and learn from their children outside of distracting influences.

Adapted from:

The Importance of Family Dinners (Fact Sheet FCS2286) By: Jodimae Lyttle and Eboni J. Baugh. Published by: Department of Family, Youth and Community Scienes (August 2008).

empty plate

Related Sites & Articles