September is synonymous with heading back to school, which can mean more time packing lunches, chasing off to practices and cramming for spelling bees. But what it can also mean is more quality family time around the table, says Tops Friendly Markets.
“That’s why for the past decade Tops has celebrated Family Meals Month every September, an important and meaningful time to gather your family around the dinner table, or any table, really, as long as you’re taking that time to disconnect from technology and reconnect with your loved ones,” the company said in a news release.
FMI Foundation studies have shown significant, measurable scientific proof of the positive, lifelong benefits of family meals; family meals nourish the spirit, brain and health of all family members, the release said, which added:
- Regular family meals are linked to higher grades and self-esteem.
- Children who grow up sharing family meals are more likely to exhibit prosocial behavior as adults, such as sharing, fairness and respect.
- With each additional family meal shared each week, adolescents are less likely to show symptoms of violence, depression and suicide, less likely to use or abuse drugs or run away, and less likely to engage in risky behavior or delinquent acts.
- Adults and children who eat at home more regularly are less likely to suffer from obesity.
- Increased family meals are associated with greater intake of fruits and vegetables.
Tops said it also will continue to provide easy and affordable meal solutions throughout the months of September to help during family meals month. Visit www.topsmarkets.com/familymealsmonth and on Instagram for family meal inspirations submitted by families, the release said.