Soccer practices, long workdays, dance recitals – sounds like your home? Family schedules are all over the place – it’s no longer the norm to have family meals together at the dinner table. Parents especially will be interested to know that studies have shown family dinner hour is an important part of healthy living.

Families that dine together tend to eat more fruits, veggies, and fewer fried foods, soda and foods with trans fat. Young kids who eat at the table are often less likely to be overweight. Frequent family dinners are a good way to stay engaged in your child’s life, and can alleviate any health problems later in life.

Here’s a quick run-down on all the benefits of frequent family dinners:

• Everyone eats healthier meals.
• Kids are less likely to become overweight or obese.
• Kids more likely to stay away from cigarettes.
• They're less likely to drink alcohol.
• They won't likely try marijuana.
• They're less likely to use illicit drugs.
• Friends won't likely abuse prescription drugs.
• School grades will be better.
• You and your kids will talk more.
• You'll be more likely to hear about a serious problem.
• Kids will feel like you're proud of them.
• There will be less stress and tension at home.

The goal is to get everyone to the dinner table and to spend quality time together. Don’t worry about making each meal a big deal. Try to get the whole family involved in the dinner process so kids learn at an early age what is healthy for them. And remember to turn the TV off!