As you strive to raise a healthy family with strong Christian values, one of your most important tools is family mealtime. While this may not seem like a significant choice, there’s a difference between a family that eats together and one that doesn’t. Here are some benefits of sitting down at the table for dinner.

Why Plan Family Meals

1. Reconnect at the End of the Day

A family meal is a time for conversation. You can hear about what happened in your loved ones’ days and have an opportunity to find out what’s on their minds. Simple everyday conversations like these are what loving, trusting relationships are built upon, and if you start the meal with a prayer, you’re helping your family connect daily with God, too.

2. Check on Your Children

This is also a chance to gauge how your children are doing, including their mood and whether they seem to be struggling with anything at school, at home, or in their personal lives. When you have a daily update on your child’s life, it’s easier to identify problems and give help where it's needed.

3. Eat Healthily

Most of the time, a balanced, home-cooked meal is going to be healthier than whatever snacks your family might grab on-the-go. By planning daily meals, you can ensure everyone in your family is getting the nutrition they need.

4. Build a Routine

Having dinner around the same time every day is part of a regular, predictable schedule. These routines help establish a sense of security and reliability in your loved ones’ lives, and can even lead to meaningful family traditions.

If you're looking for a community to help you raise a Christian family, visit the City of Refuge Christian Church in Waipahu, HI. Founded over 30 years ago by Dr. Wayne E. Anderson, this church welcomes members of all ages to its congregation. They meet every Sunday at 8:00 and 10:00 a.m., and also offer contemporary Gospel music, youth and adult ministries, Bible study, counseling, and prayer sessions. For a free consultation, call (808) 677-5677 or send a message online.