There was a time when almost every family gathered around the dinner table each and every night and shared a meal together. It was an expectation—the entire family was present. For many of us life’s most important lessons were learned during spaghetti or taco night–lessons like sharing, saving for important events, and giving back (Royal Neighbors calls it “neighboring-it-forward.”). Today, that dinner table is shrinking or, sometimes, nonexistent.
The family dinner can get the family together and also help keep it together, with a little planning and creativity. Here are some ideas that should help the family enjoy special dinners (or Sunday breakfasts for that matter).
Hold a family meeting.
Find a time that’s convenient for everyone to discuss the notion of the family dinner (it may be an entirely novel concept for some). This is the time to sort out who does what when and when the dinners can actually be scheduled. It’s also an opportunity to think about topics if your dinner will have a lesson or theme.
Suggest everyone takes a turn choosing the menu or dinner theme and cooking the meal.
Or, cook the entire meal as a family, with each one making one dish. Be sure to divide the clean-up duties equitably! Check out our recipes for some new ideas.
Turn off the television, phones, tablets, etc.
It’s difficult to carry on meaningful conversations when the nightly news is on or the kids have their head bent over a computer screen.
Take advantage of the opportunity to teach.
Family dinners are a great place to teach young children about helping others (or each other), and a great opportunity to teach older children about finances. Encourage everyone to participate, while at the same time, fostering the importance of active listening.
Keep discipline issues at a minimum.
Family dinners should be fun.
Share life lessons.
It’s not often you have a captive audience with your children. When you’re together, share some of the valuable messages you’ve learned throughout your life. Weave them into the conversation but keep it simple. Talk about making a difference in the community or to a special neighbor who might need help. Or mention managing money appropriately and saving for important events like college.
The goals of the family dinner are to enjoy each other and share a good meal… on a regular basis. Revive the lost art and get to know each other again!
