It can be done. Working the meal into the family's schedule is simply a matter of teamwork and prioritizing, Kruse says. Every member of his family has a hand in preparing dinner or cleaning up, and the routine is grounded by a firm commitment by both parents. Not all parents are overjoyed with their dinner table conversation. Batey is not alone.
Many parents say their dinner tables often become war zones.
But whether the obstacle is frequent fighting or a packed schedule, fortunately, there are solutions. Here are some ways to make family meals a reality in your home. Don't discuss topics that cause bickering. If bickering is a frequent problem, Petersen suggests looking at the situation objectively. Tape record the meal and play it back.