Family Sunday Dinners: Why They Matter and How to Begin!
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As the oldest grandchild, it was my job to set the table, complete with cloth napkins, fancy silverware and tiny crystal salt and pepper shakers.
I remember, as a little girl going to my grandparent’s house every Sunday for dinner.
It was a special day each week.
In the winter, I remember the aroma of beef roasting in the oven while grandma mashed potatoes. In the summer, I remember watching grandpa light the charcoal to grill hot dogs and burgers.
On Sunday, we were allowed to drink pop, and there was always dessert!
Aunts, Uncles, and cousins would gather. Golf or football would be on the tv in the background as a lively conversation between the adults commenced. All of us kids would play in the backyard yard or head to the basement for a round or two of ping pong.
It was fun!
After my grandparents passed away, my parents continued the tradition by hosting Sunday dinner at their house. I’m grateful for the huge, positive impact this weekly tradition has had on my upbringing, as well as the upbringing of our kids.
What is the value of Sunday dinner?
It’s a weekly de-stressor from the hustle and bustle of life during the week. A break from carpools, work, and homework.`
It connects the generations by sharing customs, traditions, and family stories.
It’s where older family members turn into mentors for younger ones.
It’s a chance to hold a baby or cheer for the toddler taking their first steps.
It’s a time to talk, laugh, share advice, ask for help, and to re-live memories.
It strengthens family bonds during the hard times and enhances the joys of the good times.
It is an opportunity for kids to observe manners and kindness and begin to put them into practice.
The tweens and teens like to show up! The food is good, and it’s a chance for them to talk with other people in the family they may look up to or participate in adult conversations.
It’s just…FUN!
What are some tips for family dinners?
Consistency, but not perfection, is the key.
Our gathering usually starts around 3:00. Dinner is typically around 5:00 ish. Everyone typically leaves by 7:00 to go home and prepare for the week.
Add the folding chairs to fit everyone in at the dining room table.
Not everybody can make it every weekend. Work schedules, vacations, and other events may keep people from being there every week, but keep it going every week, even if only a few can.
We fill our plates buffet-style in the kitchen. This saves precious space at the table. We add condiments, salt and pepper, and butter as needed to the table.
A time for treats. Appetizers? Desserts? Fancy drinks?
Everyone pitches in to cook the food. Sometimes you may be bringing the main dish, or you may be responsible for dessert, and everyone cleans up.
Sometimes you have to break out the paper plates to keep clean up minimal!
Occasionally we eat around the TV if there is a great game or a special show. In the summer, we often eat out on the patio.
What to cook? That varies for us. It can be anything from pot roast to pasta, burritos, burgers, to ordering a pizza. Around St. Patricks Day, corned beef and cabbage is a must. Then there is homemade peach ice cream in August! If it’s been a busy week, we opt for easier meals. If it’s someone’s birthday, we try to make their favorite meal or dessert.
Play some background music during dinner.
Light candles on the table.
Include kids in the prep. Setting the table or filling water glasses. As they get older, let them help with the cooking.
Take some photos and videos.
Share old photos and videos.
Play together! Walk to a nearby park! Fly a kite! Shoot hoops! Throw a football around! Play games, do puzzles or color in coloring books.
Whether you have a large family that can come together, or it is simply you and your kids, Sunday dinners are a valuable tool for raising kids.
I highly recommend incorporating this tradition consistently.
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