Image courtesy of the Food Marketing Institute

With September being National Family Meals Month, there are some benefits of eating together as a family.

Hy-Vee Registered Dietitian Rebecca Harken says studies show children who eat meals with their families have better grades in school, improved nutrition, stronger family relationships, higher self-esteem and are less likely to use drugs and alcohol. However, Harken states 75-percent of individuals say conflicting schedules is the number one reason why they don’t eat together as a family. 

Harken advises to try to have a meal plan and keep it simple. She points out another tip that could help speed the cooking process along at home.

“Having the kids help you prepare the family meals, giving everyone a different task, that’s going to help it go a lot faster. Asking your kids what they want to eat and giving them a choice, and just getting them involved in that process.”

Harken adds, cooking at home is a healthier option than eating out, along with incorporating vegetables and multi-grains to promote better nutrition.