The Importance of Family Meals
Some of the best times of my childhood were shared with my three siblings and our parents around the dining room table. Family meals during my school years hold a special place in my heart. Summer BBQs and Wednesday night visits to Bonanza Steakhouse at Annerley (later known as Sizzler) remain a favourite memory, especially during the pointy end of my schooling years. Sharing family meals does more than satisfy physical needs. It also fuels emotional needs and draws the family closer together. Having family meals as often as possible will help ensure that your children grow up healthy and have strong bonds with you and their siblings.
Pam Myers recently authored “8 Reasons Why Sharing Family Meals is Important” and I share her wisdom with you:
- Time to Catch Up - Family meals provide time for conversations and the opportunity to listen to each other. Turning off phones and the television will allow the family members to focus on each other and the conversation.
- Involve the Family in Meal Preparation - Some of the best conversations will happen as you prepare the meal together and allow you to develop team skills as a family. You can also give each family member a chance to suggest or even prepare their favourite dish.
- Develop a Routine - Preparing and serving meals around the same time each day helps develop a sense of routine and structure in the home.
- Allow Each Member time to Talk - Ask about each member's day and encourage them to speak up. They will value knowing that you are genuinely interested in them and what they have to say.
- Discuss Events - Mealtimes provide a valuable opportunity for the family to discuss what is happening in your community and in the world. Give everyone a chance to share their thoughts.
- Develop Good Eating Habits - Set a positive example by providing balanced meals with plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and protein. Talk about why certain foods are served and how to make healthy choices.
- Improves Learning - Studies confirm that children are more likely to excel at school when they grow up in homes where family dinners are routine. It improves language skills for younger children as they talk with adults.
- Improves Emotional Well-Being - Research has also shown that children who eat with their families have significantly lower risks of depression, substance abuse, suicide, and early sexual activity.
When you keep daily communication flowing, your children are more likely to feel loved and talk to you about sensitive issues. With the busy nature of modern work and school life, I hope you and your family are able to enjoy meals around the dining room table as a regular feature throughout the term ahead.
HALT Congratulations!
We have recently had three staff recognised for their expertise as Somerville House educators with certification as Highly Accomplished and Lead Teachers. A warm congratulations is extended to Dr Gemma Dale (Lead Teacher), Ms Kira Sampson (Highly Accomplished Teacher) and Ms Jess Hegerty (Highly Accomplished Teacher). The achievement of these certifications is no mean feat – applicants are required to provide evidence of their teaching practices, conduct peer and student reviews and facilitate classroom observations to demonstrate alignment with the AITSL standards.
Well done to each of these members of our Academic Staff.
Mrs Kim Kiepe
Principal
Acknowledgement: Pam Myers. “8 Reasons Why Sharing Family Meals is Important” in Child Development, August 2022