The growing body of statistics confirming the benefits of regular family mealtime is compelling.
Try these tips to make your family's mealtimes more positive.
Commit to a set time for meals (daily, weekly, or according to your schedule).
Turn off the TV, computers, handheld games, and don’t answer the phone. Don’t flip through your mail.
Use prayer to mark the transition from busyness to mealtime. Be mindful of those who do not have enough to eat today.
Slow down enough to taste and enjoy your food.
Hold one conversation at a time. Everyone gets a chance to speak. You can disagree, but you can’t be unkind about it.
Encourage laughter.
Practice manners, such as saying please and thank you and asking politely for people to pass the salt, and so on. Everyone stays at the table until they’re excused to leave.
Give everyone a role in preparing or cleaning up. Even small children can help set the table or put napkins in place.
Regularly invite guests to your table. Welcome them as you would welcome Jesus. Treat your family members the same way.
Always end with a quick expression of gratitude of God and thanks to the cook!