Research shows that the whole family benefits from having a meal together. Benefits include better nutrition, improved family communication and fostered family traditions.
“Preparing and sharing a meal together also offers an opportunity to teach life skills,” said Barbara Fuller, Iowa State University (ISU) Extension and Outreach human sciences specialist in nutrition and wellness. “Families can plan a healthy meal, learn to budget and shop for the ingredients and prepare meals together.”
“National Dining in Day is Thursday, Dec. 3,” said Kim Brantner, ISU Extension and Outreach human sciences specialist in family life. “It is a day to plan for and enjoy time with your family. Families are busy today. Sharing a meal gives families a chance to get caught up with each other and maybe even get to know each other better.”
To get your family started, visit your county ISU Extension and Outreach office for healthy and homemade calendars and cookbooks, ask about family conversation cards or visit "Spend Smart, Eat Smart" at www.extension.iastate.edu/foodsavings. This website features easy to prepare and budget-friendly recipes, short videos, shopping tips and more.
Dining in Day is an initiative of the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences. The goal is for 200,000 families to take the pledge and eat dinner together. Take the pledge at www.aafcs.org/FCSday.