In today's hectic world, families have jammed packed schedules that try to accommodate each member's activities. Quite often, by accommodating the individual family member's needs, time for the whole family to spend together is often sacrificed, put on hold, or decided to be something 'we'll do later.' One way to fix this is to use dining tables as a way to bring the family together - they can be the central place in your home for your family.
It may sound obvious, but the first place to start is to make sure that you have dining tables that can accommodate the entire family. It is difficult, and even pointless, to plan family time at them when not all of the family members can fit! Everyone should fit around it comfortably, and small children should have proper highchairs or booster seats.
It is inevitable that you will play host to a large gathering of friends or family or both. For those extended family get-togethers, consider investing in dining tables that can be extended, using leafs, for those special occasions. Some of them have a built in storage location for extra table leafs. Others do not, and you can store the dining table's leafs securely in a pantry or closet.
If you decide that your current dining tables do not reflect the needs of your family, you'll have to search for a different one. To make it a real family experience, you may even consider taking the whole family out for a dining table shopping trip. For families with several small children, this can be an exhausting experience. An alternative then would be to browse the websites of different retailers and compare sizes and prices.
The most common activity the family does at the dining table is eating meals. Make this time together more special by incorporating fun activities. For example, have each family member create the dining table's centerpiece. Alternate turns every few weeks or every month - whatever your family decides. You could also plan a time where everyone helps make a festive or seasonal centerpiece for the dining table for a special holiday meal.
You can also try host theme supper nights, where one member chooses a theme and plans the menu to coincide with it. Dining tables can become a type of stage for theme nights, as you may want to incorporate decorations, fun plate and glassware, or even costumes.
Couples without children or empty nesters whose children have moved out can also take advantage of dining tables. You can surprise your spouse with a nice, casual breakfast. Have a pot of coffee and a tray of some warm, fresh muffins waiting on the dining table for a wonderful morning treat. Prepare a meal together, light some candles, and relax at the dining table with good conversation and good company.
Dining tables are the perfect location to meet and bring your family together over some laughs, meals, and memories.
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