This question was recently asked at a session on table setting ideas, and in today's world, it is actually quite a good one. One of the phenomena of modern society, from the 1960s onwards, is the decline of the family meal. With the advent of television came the concept known as the "TV dinner," when many households would sit in front of The Box while they ate. This meant that instead of sitting at a dining room or kitchen table, they would invariably sit in front of a low coffee table and vaguely nibble from their plates as they held them in their laps, vacantly staring at the small screen instead of what they were eating. The style of food changed as well. Instead of a standard protein main course with side dishes of rice or potatoes and vegetables or a salad, meals metamorphosed into a pizza or a Chinese takeaway. Preferably, to facilitate better TV watching, finger foods, such as sandwiches and baguettes, became all the rage. And of course, conversation became pass, as it might interrupt the action...
But today, as more and more of us bemoan the decline of traditional family life, this is starting to change. Families have learned where the "off button" is and are beginning to explore the beauty of eating a meal together again. Decorating your dinner table has also started to become important again, as this becomes part of the family eating experiences. Many households even have a special meal one night a week - served on china - that is slightly more elaborate than the usual after-work rush. And here's where family fun begins.
The Process * Once you have decided to have a weekly meal to support better family ties, make sure that you get your children involved in creating the right atmosphere. A simple way to start is by teaching them napkin folding from which they would be able imitate what you're doing and at the same time enhancing their creativity. Teach them from simple techniques in napkin folding to the more intricate designs.
* Don't be afraid to let them choose the colors that they want and allow them to grow artistically. As for the centerpiece, don't forget to ask the opinion of your kids in this matter, sometimes the best ideas come from the purest minds. You may also discover your kid's hidden talent.
The family meal and all the trimmings that come with it are clearly not outdated. On the contrary, the value of such meals is immeasurable as it can unite you as a family and broaden your children's horizons.
But today, as more and more of us bemoan the decline of traditional family life, this is starting to change. Families have learned where the "off button" is and are beginning to explore the beauty of eating a meal together again. Decorating your dinner table has also started to become important again, as this becomes part of the family eating experiences. Many households even have a special meal one night a week - served on china - that is slightly more elaborate than the usual after-work rush. And here's where family fun begins.
The Process * Once you have decided to have a weekly meal to support better family ties, make sure that you get your children involved in creating the right atmosphere. A simple way to start is by teaching them napkin folding from which they would be able imitate what you're doing and at the same time enhancing their creativity. Teach them from simple techniques in napkin folding to the more intricate designs.
* Don't be afraid to let them choose the colors that they want and allow them to grow artistically. As for the centerpiece, don't forget to ask the opinion of your kids in this matter, sometimes the best ideas come from the purest minds. You may also discover your kid's hidden talent.
The family meal and all the trimmings that come with it are clearly not outdated. On the contrary, the value of such meals is immeasurable as it can unite you as a family and broaden your children's horizons.
About the Author:
Cassia contributes articles substantially with regards to hosting fantastic parties on a budget. She suggests utilizing table setting such as seasonal decor ideas to incorporate class and luxury to any kind of dish.
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