Coming together to enjoy frequent meals and snacks can help support a family's health and happiness. In fact, research has shown an association between regular family meals and improved family nutrition and overall well-being.^1-7

According to Welch's Kitchen Table Report, while parents are making family mealtimes a priority, they face challenges that make it difficult to eat meals, especially healthy meals, together. Four out of ten parents cite the lack of time to cook and busy schedules as reasons why it can be difficult to eat as a family.

Research shows that families who regularly eat together are more likely to consume more fruits, vegetables, grains and calcium-rich foods.^{1, 5-7}

Research indicates that children who eat more frequent meals with their families may have fewer behavioral issues at school.^2,4

The good news: there are easy solutions to combat these common mealtime obstacles!
Explore the below toolkit for expert advice and family-friendly resources.

Family-friendly recipes

Get simple-to-prepare, budget-friendly and delicious recipes your heart and loved ones will enjoy.

Family Mealtime Moments

Learn more about how to make the most of family mealtimes with these expert tips.

Family Mealtime Anywhere

Read expert advice on how to enjoy healthy mealtime moments anywhere.

Family Mealtime Makeovers

Transform family favorites into more convenient, healthy options with these makeovers.

Family Meal plan

Discover our printable 5-day meal plan with easy, heart-healthy meals and snacks for the whole family.

References

1. Gillman MW, SL Rifas-Shiman, AL Frazier, HRH Rockett, CA Camargo, AE Field, CS Berkey and GA Colditz. Family dinner and diet quality among older children and adolescents. Arch Fam Med. 2000. 9(3):235-240.

2. Eisenberg ME, Olson RE, Neumark-Sztainer D, Story M and Bearinger LH. Correlations between family meals and psychosocial well-being among adolescents. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2004. 58(8):792-796.

3. Hammons A and Fiese B. Is frequency of shared family meals related to the nutritional health of children and adolescents? Pediatrics. 2011. 127(6):e1565-74.

4. Hofferth SL. How American children spend their time. Journal of Marriage and Family. 2001. 63(2):295-308.

5. Videon TM and Manning CK. Influences on adolescent eating patterns: the importance of family meals. J Adolesc Health. 2003. 32(5):365-73.

6. Martin-Biggers J, Berhaupt-Glickstein A, Worobey J and Byrd-Bredbenner C. Benefits of family mealtime across the growing years: a conceptual model. FASEB Journal. 2012. 26(Meeting Abstract Supplement):815.10.

7. Neumark-Sztainer D, Hannan PJ, Story M, Croll J and Perry C. Family meal patterns: associations with sociodemographic characteristics and improved dietary intake among adolescents. J Am Diet Assoc. 2003. 103(3):317-322.