We need to spend time with our children if we’re going to impact their lives. That includes dinner time! I used to sit down at the table with Dottie, before we even had kids, and I’ve always just loved to read the newspaper while I’m eating breakfast and having coffee. And one time Dottie just got fed up with it, and she said, “Honey, can you please not read the newspaper? We have no conversation at the table. And I sit here and you’re reading the paper the whole time.” I went, “You know I ever even thought about that.” From that day on, I don’t think I’ve ever read a newspaper at a meal since then. And boy, has that paid off with my children. And I challenge you to look at meal time as a chance to turn off your phone, turn off the T.V., and just focus on your children. And you know what research shows out of Columbia University?

That the more kids have a meal with their parents, the healthier they are, the better grades at school, the less antisocial behavior, and the more they desire to be at home—directly correlated with the amount of time they spent at meals with their parents. Make sure those times are productive.

Also, be aware of the times when you have their undivided attention, like when you are in the car with them. Turn your cell phone off for maybe a half hour, hour, whatever it is when you’re in the car with your child so you can focus on them. And then, be careful not to let other people interrupt your time with your children.

New to this series? Watch the introduction video here

More Resources:

10 Great Reasons to Eat Dinner as a Family
Bond with your Family: Eat Together
Balancing Work and Family