Research does support that having a family dinner at least 3 times a week reduces substance abuse disorders and eating disorders. So, the short answer is yes, however, here are some best practices in organizing and developing a routine in your family dinners.
Can’t do 3 times a week, here are some ways to improve dinnertime.
- Make having dinner together a scheduled event. Sometimes it is nice to have family dinner on Sunday nights, right before the hectic week starts, other times might work depending on your family’s schedule.
- Family dinners encourage communication and connection. Starting a meal with a short prayer, meditation, and/ or a gratitude practice. Thanking each other for small acts of kindness goes a long way.
- Have a technology free zone during dinner. Focus on what’s going on in the present. Adding a fun game at the end of dinner also bonds families.