Creating Calm and Positive Mealtime Routines

What is your strongest memory with your family? When is the time you bond with the family the most? 

Chances are most of them will have at least one memory revolving around the mealtime- be it breakfast, lunch or dinner. Having a calm mealtime routine forms a strong bond between the family members. 

The question is how can we build calm and positive mealtime routines? Let’s look at some tips to do that. 

1. Minimise external distraction: Always try to avoid and keep the external distractions in check while mealtimes. Off the screens, keep the phones and other work away during the mealtime.

2. Have mealtimes together: Mealtimes are the best time to bond with the family. During this time, always try to have the entire family together for meals. Eat at the same time and not at different periods.
   
   
   

3. Do not have arguments/fights during mealtime: Do not deal with the arguments and disagreements during the mealtime. Take the arguments for private spaces. Always keep mealtime warm and love filled.  

4. Divide the responsibility: Mealtime responsibility is not one person’s task. Divide the pre-meal and post-meal responsibilities among all the family members. This will help create a bond and raise responsible kids.
   
   
   

5. Appreciate the providers, the helpers and the food: Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others. Thank everyone who helped in getting the food to the table.

6. Ask suggestions: Asking for healthy suggestions after meals help in building opinions in children. Questions like “On a scale of 1-10, how much do you like the food?”, “Is there anything else we can include in the meals?”, help in creating opinions and the feeling of being valued in kids. 

   Remember to keep the language mindful when communicating opinions. 

   FAQ 

   1. Why is eating together as a family important?
      
      Family mealtimes create opportunities for connection, conversation, and shared experiences. Regularly eating together helps strengthen relationships, improves communication, and creates positive memories that children often carry into adulthood.
      
      

   2. How can we reduce distractions during mealtime?
      
      Keep televisions, mobile phones, tablets, and work materials away from the dining area. Creating a screen-free environment allows family members to focus on each other, engage in meaningful conversations, and enjoy their meal without interruptions.
      
      

   3. How can children be involved in mealtime responsibilities?
      
      Children can help with age-appropriate tasks such as setting the table, arranging utensils, serving water, clearing dishes, or helping with simple food preparation. Involving children promotes responsibility, teamwork, and a sense of belonging within the family.