Breaking Bread: A Table Treaty

What is the most important meal of the day?

BREAKFAST. RIGHT?! Well, of course, but did you know that when a family shares a meal, it becomes much more than eggs and oatmeal being consumed, it becomes an increase in self esteem and grades and a decrease in childhood depression and teen pregnancies?!?

Crazy right?

Well, family meals are important and research supports this! The Family Dinner Project states, “Dinner is a time to relax, recharge, laugh, tell stories and catch up on the day’s ups and downs, while developing a sense of who we are as a family.” http://thefamilydinnerproject.org/resources/faq/

Aside from the importance of a home cooked meal, feeding the starving attention of your family is the greatest thing you can do for your relationship with your children. Families re usually together during mealtime anyway, why not make it family time as well.

Here are my top five suggestions in making a Table Treaty with your family:

5. When possible prepare meals together. Whether it’s a homemade pizza with all the fixings or a simple salad, make it a moment to bond.

4. Try to eat dinner the same time, everyday. Repetition is key. Dinner should be the moment of the day that everyone would look forward to.

3. Make conversation. Communication is healthy for the entire family…break bread and converse!

2. Turn off all forms of entertainment (phone, portal games, TV, etc.). I believe technology is one of the big influences, both positively and negatively in society. No one knows how to function without it. At dinner time and for the remaining of the evening, no devices should be allowed. Nighttime is the time to unwind and prepare mentally for the next day. So, unwind with the company and conversation of family.

1. Always begin with prayer. Thank God for grace and a good meal. Establishing a relationship not only with your family, but with God as well, will strengthen your family but remind your children that God is at the center of your family.

So with all the new fads and promises we make for the New Year, make this one count!! Let’s make healthy habits and change the way we communicate… it all can begin at the table!