When was the last time your family ate dinner together? If you're like the majority of our "high paced" society, you are probably feeling a bit discouraged because you can't remember. That doesn't make you a terrible parent, it probably means your life is moving warp speed and you're exhausted. Whether you're running the kids to soccer practice, working late, or preoccupied with endless obligations-there is hope! Eating together as a family takes planning these days. Without planning, there is no meal, just fast-food. Without a shared meal, there is no valuable family conversation that is oh so needed in today's age. The question you should ask yourself is, "What small adjustment can I make, to make this possible?" Consider the following titbit's to motivate you:
- Shared family meals are more likely to be nutritious
- Kids who eat regularly with their families are less likely to snack on unhealthy foods
- Kids are more prone to try fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Teens are less likely to smoke, drink alcohol, or use drugs
- Kids are less likely to develop body image delusions, as well as the upraise in eating disorders.
- As adults, your children will be more cautious of maintaining a healthy diet.
**Below is a great link about the benefits of family meals:
http://almostfit.com/2008/07/15/do-you-eat-together-as-a-family/
Aside from wanting to begin this enjoyable time spent with your family, it will take a strong effort to make it happen. Begin planning! Try these steps to attempt the challenge that will be well worth it in the end:
- Plan to eat dinner when everyone can be there. Begin by eating together 2-3 days of the week. If one spouse cannot be there, make sure to make a plate of nutritious leftovers.
- Discuss as a family nutritious foods you would like to try. Allow everyone to choose a meal and cook them together!
- Determine the "fork in the road." Why are we not having more family meals? Lack of supplies, busy schedule, no time to cook? ...and then change it (make small adjustments).
- If your week is crammed, prepare foods/meals on a Sunday afternoon and throw them in a Ziploc bag for the week.
- Write a menu, stick it to your refrigerator, and stick to it! Include chores such as setting the table and doing the dishes.
Family meals do not mean you can't go out and enjoy a family meal cooked for you. Check out some of these restaurants located right here in West Palm Beach. Enjoy a nice night out with the family, while also being cautious of eating healthy.
Being a healthy parent, modeling healthy eating habits, will not only benefit your own health, but will filter into your child's decision making towards their health also.
Comments
It is so important for families to eat together as one unit. That attention and family intimacy has vanished this day and age. Good for you Jaime for bringing that point to light and encouraging families to begin to become one again.
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