Words on Wellness

Holiday Mealtime

     During the holiday season, don’t forget to make time for family meals. Children who often eat dinner with their families are more likely to do well in school, have positive peer relationships, and resist the harmful effects of substance abuse. In addition, regular family mealtime improves communication and nutrition, builds stronger family bonds, and is an opportunity for parents to teach important skills to their children. Furthermore, meals prepared at home are often less expensive and more nutrient rich.

     Here are ways to enjoy family mealtime during busy holiday schedules:

     • Make family mealtime a priority. Set aside specific times of the week when family members will eat together.

     • Be creative and flexible about when and where you eat. Make the most of opportunities instead of worrying about following a strict timetable.

     • Make mealtime pleasant. Children learn social skills from listening and watching their parents. Parents can set a positive tone for family meals and set a good example by listening and sharing.

     • Eliminate distractions. Turn off the electronic devices (cell phones, television, etc.). Commit to device-free meals on or during the week of Dec. 3, 2018, by participating in the initiative “Dining In” for Healthy Families, from the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (http://bit.ly/ FCSdaypledge).

     • Keep meals simple and easy. Use a slow cooker to prepare a meal that can be ready to eat when the family is ready to eat.

     • Use family mealtime Conversation Cards (store.extension. iastate.edu/product/6605).