It seems that old customs are making their way back into people’s lives – it’s reported (by CASA) that 59% of families said they ate dinner together at least 5 times a week, which is a significant increase from 47% in 1998.
So, why should you eat as a family?
Not only will your children or parents recognise the value of food and the work that goes into preparing it, but it’ll also lay the groundwork of learning about respect healthy lifestyle choices.
Psychologically speaking, eating together as a family can also support positive identity, high self-esteem and social competencies, according to Dr. Fulkerson from Columbia University’s National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse.
Also, teen girls who eat five or more meals per week at home with the family are significantly less likely to be bulimic or anorexic.
Take the opportunity to eat with family and see it as a great way to catch up – plus, it’s a great way to test-drive your latest cookbook or recipe.
