Eating together helps you:

• try new foods
• create stronger bonds
• learn new skills and manners.

Positive mealtimes

Healthy eating is about more than the amount and types of food you eat. It also involves enjoying food in an environment that is safe supportive and enjoyable. 

Use the tips below to learn how to create a positive mealtime experience for yourself and others.

Invite people to join you

• Make mealtimes a priority for everyone in your household. 
• If you live alone invite family friends neighbours and colleagues to eat with you.
• Joining a community kitchen is another way to eat more socially.

Set the scene

• Use table cloths placemats or candles to make mealtimes more special.
• Let children decide how to set the table or pick the music.

Minimise distractions

• Turn off the TV. Put phones and tablets away.
• Sit down together while eating.

Be a role model

• Include babies in mealtimes as soon as they start eating solids.
• If possible eat the same meals and snacks as children.
• Talk positively about food. Avoid discussing personal food likes or dislikes.

Parents provide kids decide

• Provide a range of foods with different colours flavours and textures.
• Encourage everyone to try all the foods offered. 
• Let children and young people decide when theyre full.

Expect some mess

• Let babies hold finger foods and spoons to try and feed themselves.
• Young children can eat with their fingers if they are learning to use utensils.
• Encourage children to serve pass and pour food and drinks.

Start a conversation

• Discuss upcoming plans and whats happening.
• Tell stories about earlier times in your lives.
• Use real-world events to talk to children about topics that are important to your family.