Recently I read an article about the importance of the family dinner and the value to each member of the family. It seems that the family dinner is trying to make its' way back into our lives despite the fact that we are doing more today than ever before.

Gayle Peterson notes it is not only the food that nourishes, but also the spirit and souls of each member. It is a time to demonstrate that family is important and comes before other activities. This often requires an effort on the part of all the members, but there is value in teaching good communication, faith in God, and love and concern for one another. the family dinner also provides a sense of groundedness and roots to each member.

According to the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA), the chance of a child using drugs significantly declines when they regularly eat dinner with their parents. In addition, the teens are less likely to smoke tobacco. CASA created a national family day to encourage families to start to eat together. It is the fourth Monday in September and has been celebrated since 2001. You don't have to wait till then. Pick a regular time and day and begin to establish this ritual as a regular practice.

Family is important and providing something with so much value for your children and for yourself is a way of demonstrating what is really important in life.