The best memories can be made around the kitchen table.
Of course, meals at the kitchen table can also be rushed or done while your thoughts are on a million other things you need to take care of. Nowadays it is possible for a family to sit around the same table but not be together in the true sense of the word – all because of cell phones and social media.
Let’s consider 5 easy habits that can help you notice the precious moments you share with your family and create special memories that may last a lifetime:
- Togetherness: prepare a meal or set the table together to set a relaxed atmosphere and establish a sense of family collaboration.
- Presence: start a meal by checking in with each person. A great way to do this is to give each one the opportunity to check in with one word to describe how they are feeling at that very moment. Try not to judge or fix things, but rather just listen and keep the kitchen table a safe space. You can always revisit what was said in a one-to-one environment.
- Creativity: present the meal in a fun or creative way – even the humblest meal can be beautiful. Cut your KEFALOS cheese slices with fun-shaped cookie cutters or build a smiley face in your smoothie bowl of KEFALOS yoghurt or by using slices of fruit.
- Gratitude: eat your meal slowly and savour the tastes and textures. Consider where the ingredients come from and have a conversation about the environment, animals, and people that all play a part in supplying the produce on your plate.
- Playfulness: mealtime around the table should be fun! Sing a song, read a rhyme, or play a word game identifying all the ingredients on the table by colour or letter of the alphabet. (Look out for our next blog post for a printable dairy-themed word game!)
Memories shared with family and loved ones are one of the most rewarding investments you can make and revisiting these memories will let a sense of belonging take root in the hearts of those who cherish them.