Earlier this week we talked about the importance and the benefits of eating together as a family. But some parents might not know what to do once you get the family around the dinner table to get communication flowing. No one can benefit if there is too much arguing going on, if there is no meaningful conversation or even worse, if there is just plain silence during dinner. Below are a few tips to try to jump start the conversation and get to know your kids all over again.1. Rule one - TV, radio, phones, text messaging- it all should be turned off during mealtime.
2. Set the table together with children and encourage them to clean up with you. This way everyone will feel important. This is especially important for the younger ones, since they can’t always help with cooking.
3. Adjust your meal time to accommodate as many members of the family as possible.
4. Skip the restaurant. Eat at home as much as possible. Restaurants may inhibit your child from really opening up and showing you their feelings. In addition, your family will get better nourishment from foods like lean meat, poultry, fruits, vegetables and whole wheat.
5. Remember that it is never too late to start a family dinner ritual. Just find a routine that works best for your family.
A regular family dinner can really develop into a family ritual like game night. Let’s bring it back into style. It is a great way for mom and dad to set and discuss certain rules, get to know more about your kid's friends, and be a good role model. The benefits of eating together will last a lifetime and change the life of you and your children for the better.
Sources: http://www.theparentreport.com
http://www.enotalone.com
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