11/07/2025
One of the most common threads I see in families navigating picky eating?
They rarely eat together. And I get it.
💬 “We eat later after the kids go to bed.”
💬 “Our schedules don’t align.”
💬 “Everyone wants something different.”
💬 “It’s the only quiet time we get all day.”
These are valid, real-life challenges—and you’re not doing anything wrong. But research continues to show that sitting down to eat together—even just a few times a week—has a huge impact on a child’s eating habits, food acceptance, and social development.
Children learn by watching. When they see you enjoying veggies, trying new foods, or even pausing to chat between bites, they’re learning how to relate to food—and people—without pressure.
Studies have linked regular family meals with:
✔️ Better diet quality
✔️ Increased fruit and veg intake
✔️ Lower risk of disordered eating
✔️ Improved language and social skills
Start small.
🍽️ Share breakfast on Sundays
🍽️ Do “snack platters” together after daycare
🍽️ Choose one dinner each week where everyone eats the same meal—even if it’s simple
It doesn’t have to be daily, and it definitely doesn’t have to be perfect.
But a few shared moments each week, will make all the difference.
