Find Time for Meals, Together...

by Heather Durenberger, Tastemaker in Residence

As a mom of four children, one of the most important things I do is hold dinner time sacred. No matter where we are or what it looks like... be it around a table, on a park bench, in the risers at the baseball game, or in the “momma” van. I do my best to ensure my family comes together once a day for a meal.  It can be breakfast, lunch or ideally dinner, but I work to find a way.  

With four kids in four sports, dance, music lessons and confirmation it gets tricky but it is worth it. You may ask why I go to such lengths and here it is - I have found the meal time is the glue for my family. It is the time when each child shares the following: What was the best part of your day? What happened on the bus ride to school? What happened during recess? What was worst part of your day?  

Teachable moments are woven throughout the meal and provide the best answers to these questions. Not to mention the research that proves; families that eat together stay together. Children who eat a family meal do better in school, are less likely to start drugs or smoke, are more courteous and develop better eating patterns. (source: Purdue University Center for Families).  

For couples without children meal time is precious because it helps us slow down and connect face to face with our significant other and be in relationship with each other. 

Join me and others who hold dinner time as sacred. You will be glad you did.