There is a surprising link between family meal times and educational performance of children

Children who dine with their families frequently get higher grades and perform better on tests, say researchers at Columbia University. This relationship between family meal times and academic achievement is not only interesting but also points to the importance of family in a child's schooling.
The , which was conducted by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University, involved teens who had regular family dinners, i.e, around five or more per week. The findings show that these teens were more likely to earn A's in school than their counterparts who ate with their families less often. The study also found that frequent family dining was associated with enhanced vocabularies, stronger communication skills, and a better chance at academic success.

One of the main reasons why researchers say family meals promote academic achievement is the predictability of the environment that they create. To have a special time of the day when the family sits together provides the child with a feeling of stability that is vital for the emotional well-being of the child. At a time when children are surrounded by the pressure of studies, after-school activities, and peer pressure, the dining table at home is an island of emotional support and bonding.
The advantages go beyond academic performance itself. The interaction that occurs during meals is an excellent opportunity for children to have a conversation, ask questions, and listen to their parents. This daily communication habit, researchers say, enables the kids to develop strong verbal skills, which in turn leads to improved academic performance. It also allows children to be able to articulate their thoughts and feelings in a place they are safe and caring.
Apart from language proficiency, family meals are also a time when open conversation is facilitated for discussing values, expectations, and experiences. It helps children be critical thinkers through listening to parents' views and sharing their own. This open discussion can better equip them for problem-solving as well as address problems both at home and within the classroom. When parents communicate with their children at the table, it promotes mutual respect between them, making their relationship stronger.

Another important finding from the research was the influence family dinners have on minimizing unhealthy habits. Adolescents who ate with their families more frequently were less likely to participate in alcohol consumption, smoking, or other unhealthy habits. Specialists believe that the frequent presence of parents at mealtime might serve as a protective factor, giving advice and promoting healthy behaviors. This can ultimately have positive effects on their emotional health and general success in life.
The conclusion of this study highlights the importance of everyday, mundane actions, like eating a meal together, in determining a child's future. While sthe chool environment, teaching quality, and peer group may often affect academic performance, the influence of the family must not be neglected. The emotional bonding and communication established through mealtimes within the family can be equally impactful on a child's education.
In today's busy world, it might seem challenging for families to make time for regular family dinners. Yet, the research indicates that making family meals a priority can be one of the most powerful ways to help a child succeed academically and personally. The message is clear, sharing a meal at the table is more than a way to feed the body; it is a way to feed the mind that leads to achievement in every aspect of life.