Now that we’re well into the new school year, with homework, sports, and changing weather attacking schedules from all sides, the pressure on parents who want to be actively engaged in parenting has significantly increased.
“Family mealtime” is often cited as the panacea.
A few years ago, Cornell University set out statistics stating that “Your child may be 35% less likely to engage in disordered eating, 24% more likely to eat healthier foods and 12% less likely to be overweight” as a result of this ritual. Ready for another helping of research? [1]
Anne Fishel, PhD, of the Family Dinner Project, goes further. She credits “family dinners” with “lower rates of substance abuse, teen pregnancy and depression, as well as higher grade-point averages and self-esteem.” Dr Fishel also states that family dinner conversation is “a more potent vocabulary-booster than reading.” [2,3]
The University of Florida cites “conversation” as a key component of these meals. Properly structured mealtimes support parents in teaching healthy communication dynamics without the distractions of technology when families keep to this discipline. And it fosters a learning environment that goes both ways.
Need more help with specifics? The Family Dinner Project offers detailed content for getting the conversational ball rolling. [4]
Conclusions in the Cornell report stress two important components in these mealtimes. One is that families should be having these meals at least three times per week. The other is that the schedules for these routines should be kept consistent.
Eastgate Saline has a wide variety of environments and menus for restaurant dining, listed under References below. [5]
On the other hand, perhaps this reminder of family mealtime value has provided the justification you’ve been looking for to get back into the kitchen. Busch’s Fresh Food Market has a wide variety of groceries to help channel your Food Network skills — starting now. [6,7]
References
- “Do Family Meals Really Make a Difference?” Eliza Cook and Rachel Dunifon, Cornell University College of Human Ecology.
- Saline Community Addiction Prevention Task Force (Facebook Page).
- “FAQ” Anne Fishel PhD, The Family Dinner Project.
- “Conversation” The Family Dinner Project.
- Restaurant dining in Eastgate Saline:
Biwako Sushi (Facebook Page)
Cancun Mexican Grill (Facebook Page)
Cottage Inn Pizza
Hungry Howie’s Pizza
Jet’s Pizza
Joyful House Chinese Restaurant
KFC / Taco Bell
Mancino’s Pizza and Grinders
Mark’s Midtown Coney Island
Matty J’s Bakery and Cafe
McDonald’s
Ruby Tuesday
Saline Inn Restaurant
Subway
Wendy’s
Tim Horton’s Coffee & Baked Goods - Busch’s Fresh Food Market (home page).
- Food Network (home page).
