Benefits of the Family Table

I love our old farmhouse table in our kitchen. It is the only table my husband can remember sitting in grandma and grandpa’s kitchen, and when his grandparents moved, they generously left the old table for us to love and cherish.  We have no idea how old the table is, but if it could talk I’m sure it could tell many stories. We have countless memories around this table, but with those memories come some amazing benefits.

Benefits of the family table:

1.  Saves Money – Without a doubt, homemade foods are usually much cheaper than eating at a restaurant or buying processed foods.

2.  Saves Time – It is faster to cook at home if you plan ahead.  So many meals can be made in less than 30 minutes. Plus there are lots of great crock pot recipes where you can throw in your ingredients before you leave the house and come home to a meal that is ready to eat.

3.  Healthier – When we prepare our own food, we know exactly what is in it!  When you are in control of your kitchen, you can avoid food allergies and sensitivities, and you can control your portions much easier at home.

4.  Brings Us Together - It is a place where we can catch up after a busy day, a place where we can communicate and listen to each other, share our dreams and ideas, and solve problems. According to the American College of Pediatrics, when families regularly share meals together, children do better in school, are healthier, have a decreased risk of drug, alcohol and nicotine use, and other high-risk behaviors.  

Unfortunately, in our society, the family is not benefiting from the family table because family meals are becoming rare with crowded calendars and electronic distractions. The good news is shared meals can become a regular routine for your family if you are intentional about it.  You have tremendous potential to increase the quality of life in your home and deepen family relationships by simply gathering around your family table. 

Blessings to Your Family Table,

Jamie