Having a family is wonderful. Learning to appreciate each other is important, and to do so we must spend time together, having fun and communicate on a daily basis. Most family problems arise from misunderstandings and not listening to each other properly. Dinnertime together, around the table, can solve a lot of these difficulties, if we as parents try to create a cosy and happy atmosphere. Kids look forward to spending time with both mummy and daddy, and making this a priority can be very rewarding.

Taking time to talk with each other at the dinner table can be relaxing, and also a good time to teach the children good manners and courtesy. Saying “please“ and “thank you“ should be the first thing small children learn when it comes to table manners. Learning not to talk with food in the mouth is also something children can learn at an early age. Teaching manners should be gradual yet insistent, with realistic expectations for the child’s age. We don't want to overwhelm our young children with too many table rules at once. Avoiding anger at mealtime is very important, if we want our children to be well balanced. Should a child become unruly at the table, take him away and talk to him in a separate room, not to further upset the atmosphere. Good manners actually start with the parents being kind and considerate of the children, and the dinner table is an excellent place to practice. Kids are copy cats, and they will copy both the good and the bad, therefore teaching etiquette and politeness by sample stars at an early age: praising the children when they are good and polite helps a lot. Children usually want to please, and grow happy when they are appreciated.