The Importance of Family Dinner

Research published in Pediatrics in April 2011 found that children benefit greatly when families share at least three meals together each week.

Benefits of Family Dinner

Sharing meals together regularly can support a child’s physical, emotional and social well-being. According to the research, benefits may include:

• Prevention of excessive weight gain because meals prepared at home are often less calorie-dense
• Teaching children healthy food choices
• Reducing the risk of eating disorders, including a 35% reduction in anorexia and bulimia

Healthy Habits and Emotional Well-Being

• Promoting improved social and emotional well-being, which can also support better academic performance
• Helping children cope better with challenges like cyberbullying, which can increase the risk of depression, anxiety and substance abuse

Tips for Busy Families

With busy schedules, it can be difficult to fit in at least three home-cooked dinners each week. These tips can help make family meals more manageable:

• On nights when you cook, double the ingredients and freeze the second meal for a busier evening
• Use a slow cooker early in the day so dinner is ready by evening
• Use paper plates on especially busy nights. As Dr. Berchelmann states in her HealthyChildren article, “one of the appeals of fast food is easy clean-up and no dishes.”

References

Benefits of Family Meals: Eat Together, Thrive Together - HealthyChildren.org