Regardless of what time the children arrive home from school or you get in from work, sitting down together as a family for your evening meal is very important. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn
Regardless of what time the children arrive home from school or you get in from work, sitting down together as a family for your evening meal is very important. It’s the perfect opportunity to learn about what your little ones have been up to throughout the day whilst also ensuring they’re getting a good, wholesome meal.
Making time for your family
If week nights tend to be a little busy with every member of the family entering the house at a different time then it is important you make time for your family. If weekdays feel rushed then Sunday afternoons are the perfect opportunity to get everyone together and rustle up a tantalising roast dinner.
Both the main affair, which may include beef, pork, chicken, turkey or a vegetarian option, and the sides are equally important. Serve crispy roast potatoes with a golden crispy coating, honey glazed carrots and buttered peas, and lashing of gravy to keep everyone happy.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even have a go at making your own dessert or offer a range of side dishes – such as roast potatoes and mash, Yorkshire puddings and stuffing.
The importance of eating together as a family
Sitting down together as a family at the dinner table is actually healthier than sitting slouched in front of the TV. The benefits of eating meals at the dining table are innumerable and advantages include:
- combating obesity
- lowering body mass index (bmi)
- making people feel better about themselves
Talking amongst one and other is a great way to avoid overeating but it’s also a good way to make meal times more personal and more enjoyable. Switching off from technology is good for everyone once in a while, which is why a number of parents will introduce a ‘no phone’ or ‘no laptop’ rule at the table.
Abandoning these items for half an hour or so will increase concentration levels – not to mention doing wonders for the conversation!
Get the kids involved
When it comes to mealtimes, getting the kids involved in the preparation process is a great way to teach them a few life skills. From setting the table to creating their own choice of sides, there are a number of ways to let kids join in.
This way you’ll be able to teach them a few recipes and meal ideas, which will certainly come in handy when you’re held back at work or out at a social event. Who knows, they may even end up making you dinner all on their own in a little time!