RADIO TRANSCRIPT
July 26, 2022
Brandi Silver

This is Brandi Silver, FCS agent with the N.C. Cooperative Extension, Burke County Center.  Our program today is about coming together for family meals.

It may take a little work to bring everyone together for meals but the payoff will be worth it.  Start eating meals together as a family when your kids are young and it will become a habit. Plan when you will eat together as a family. You may not be able to eat together every day but try to have family meals most days of the week. A meal together doesn't have to be the evening meal. Sometimes, lunch may be the better option for your family. Breakfast together can be a great way to start the day. Decide what works for your family and make time to connect around the table.

Involving kids in the process is also beneficial for developing good habits. Depending on the age of your child, they may be able to:

●     Rinse fruits and vegetables,  add ingredients, help set the table or wash the dishes.

When you are eating together, try to make family meals enjoyable. Focus on the meal and each other. Turn off or store devices, Take phone calls or texts later, and be in the moment. Strive to make meals a stress-free time by saving conflict causing topics for another time.

Involve children in the conversation by asking questions like:

●     If you could invite anyone to eat with us today, who would it be?

●     What's your favorite crunchy food? Why?

Encourage children to participate by asking questions as well. Taking time to connect over a meal will strengthen relationships.

This has been Brandi Silver with the N.C. Cooperative Extension, Burke County Center.  For more information, contact us 764-9480.