The Facts Support Family Meals

September 28, 2022

Check out these facts:

The more times you eat together as a family, the more your family connection increases, which means increased self-esteem, a sense of well-being, and positive social behaviors. This applies to both adults and children.

Without reading these facts, I know in my heart that eating together is the right thing to do. I recognize that our family connection is enhanced, and we all feel more balanced and supported. I’m always motivated to do better when I read information like this.

Knowing the benefits of family meals is great, but it’s really about how to achieve this goal of regular, expected family meals that will work in our crazy lives. I’m not the most organized person, so anything that helps me stay on top of my meetings, back-to-school nights, sports practices, and work obligations is really appreciated.

I like to cook, but I don’t always like to have to cook!

Sometimes, I am just so pressed for time, so choosing an easy recipe and knowing I have the ingredients on hand is key. I used to go through phases of eating the same thing over and over until everyone complained. It’s easier now because I use my DinnerTime meal recommendations for a lot more variety. Although my Usual profile captures all my needs, I sometimes have fun searching in the DinnerTime Recipe Box. My favorite searches are sheet pan, one pot, easy and slow cooker. You can spot a pattern here! I then add these dishes to my meal plan and know that all the ingredients will appear on my DinnerTime Grocery List. What I discover in my DinnerTime Recipe Box motivates and excites me to prepare these dishes.

My other trick is to double the number of servings and enjoy the meal another night. I love knowing we are eating healthy foods that will power our brains, bodies, and energies.

Establish Routines

• Plan: Pick a consistent day to plan your meals for the week. Include the kids or other members of your household. Any special requests? What’s on the calendar for the week? Soccer practice or board meetings that may limit cooking time? Choose quick recipes or repurpose leftovers for those extra busy nights.
• Shop: Plan for the whole week and shop once, efficiently using your DinnerTime Grocery List. Don’t forget to update your DinnerTime Pantry Manager, so you use up existing ingredients like frozen chicken.
• Prep: Do what you can on the weekends or in a free evening to reduce the amount of time needed to get dinner on the table. Chop up onions, peppers, garlic, etc. to be ready to assemble.
• Slow Down: When the meal starts, be present. Think of all the hands that worked to put the food on the table. Give thanks or start off with a quick message for the day such as The sky is the daily bread of the eyes.  ~Ralph Waldo Emerson. Imagine the fun conversations that will evolve!

We challenge you to make one more meal at home every week. Reap the rewards of a more-connected family.

Look what I found in my DinnerTime Recipe Box search!

Search in your DinnerTime Recipe Box to find your favorite dishes easy to make at home.

Remember to rate recipes and “favorite” them to your recipe box.