First Shut It Off

Family Meal Time is Important Time

Family meals are much more important than just nutrition.  Meal time is a chance for families to catch up with each other, learn about each others day, their likes and dislikes.  It shows kids that they are a priority for their parents.  These families build stronger and more open relationships.  Children learn manners, patience and the give and take of conversation.  Active, caring, sharing mealtimes are like cement that bonds a family together.  It gives us tools for life and resilience to face adversity and temptation.

*Studies have shown that kids whose families do not make family meal time a priority are less likely to think their parents are proud of them.

*19% of teens who eat fewer than 3 meals per week with their family report that there is a high level of stress between family members compared to only 7% of teens who eat 5 or more meals with their families.

*The simple act of eating dinner together is shown to reduce the chance that teens will become involved in alcohol, tobacco and illegal drugs. 

*Kids who do not eat with their families are more likely to be overweight.

*Research has shown that the family activity with the most positive benefits is eating dinner together.

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