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Do you miss eating at the same table with your family? I do a lot! I miss those times when we sit around the table eating, gisting, and laughing together.
Life has become so busy that many of us don’t even get to eat at home again. Some families don’t have a stipulated meal time anymore and those that still have are struggling to meet up.
Sincerely, I don’t know who or what we should blame. Is it the time we are in or ourselves for putting work and money before family?
Our forefathers, who instituted the culture of family meals also catered for the needs of their homes but they understood that a family that eats together shares an unquantifiable, deeper bond.
In a family setting, mealtime is not just for the growth and nourishment of the body. It also serves as an avenue to reconnect the soul and the body of the family members. 
Therefore, in this article, we will explore the importance of family meals and how we can revive and make them part of our day-to-day family culture.
What are family meals?
Family meals are meals that the members of a family share. They are eaten either at home or at a restaurant.
It is important because it provides an opportunity for families to connect and share their days.
Benefits of family meals
First of all, family meals help children develop healthier eating habits. Children who eat regular family meals are more likely to model after the elders in the family to eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
They are also more likely to avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive amounts of saturated and unhealthy fats.
Also, family meals tend to improve children’s academic performance. Studies have shown that children who eat regular family meals tend to have better grades and test scores.
This is likely because family meals provide a time for children to relax and focus on their families, which helps to reduce stress and improve their overall well-being.
Likewise, it helps to reduce risky behaviors in children. Research shows that children who eat regular family meals are less likely to form unhealthy habits of smoking, drinking alcohol, or using drugs.
They are also less likely to engage in other risky behaviors, such as early sexual activity and delinquency.
Family meals strengthen family bonds. A family that eats together leverages the opportunity to talk about their day, share stories, and laugh together. This builds stronger relationships between family members.
Additionally, family meals create lasting memories. I don’t know about you but some of my fondest childhood memories involve sharing meals with my family and laughing our hearts out in intimate conversations.
And these memories shape our sense of identity and belonging.
How to make family meals a reality in today’s busy world
Understood you are busy. But, no matter how busy you are, it is essential to make time for family meals because a family that eats together bonds together.
So, to share a family meal in today’s very busy world:
- Plan your meals ahead of time. This will help you save time and avoid having to make last-minute decisions about what to cook.
- Make simple meals that everyone will enjoy. There’s no need to spend hours in the kitchen preparing elaborate meals.
- Get everyone involved in preparing and serving the meal. This is a great way to teach children about cooking and nutrition, and it also helps to make family meals more enjoyable.
- Set the table and create a relaxed atmosphere to create a positive and inviting environment.
- Turn off the TV and other distractions. When you’re eating together, it’s important to focus on each other and the conversation.
- Talk to each other about your day and share stories. Family meals are a great time to learn more about what’s going on in each other’s lives and to share your own stories.
- Enjoy the meal and each other’s company. Relax; just focus on the meal and the company of your loved ones.
Final thoughts on the power of family meals
Family meals are a great way to improve your family’s health and well-being. If you’re not already having regular family meals, make a commitment to start today. You won’t regret it!
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