“People say they don't have time to cook, yet in recent years we've found two more hours a day for the Internet.” After many studies have been conducted, family dinners, which were once a dying tradition, are starting to make a comeback. (Time Magazine, 3) Family dinners have been proven to be very beneficial and help give children the confidence and skills they need in their lives. It is important for parents to encourage family dinners in their home. When family dinners are often held at home, it will increase the child's nutrition, education, communication and relationships, and his or her likelihood of not being involved in drugs and alcohol. Many studies have established that having regular family dinners together encourages the intake of healthy foods. A family tends to consume more fruits and vegetables and fewer fried foods when they make eating together a priority. Sodas and foods high in trans fats are also more likely to be avoided. Professor Hammons explains: “We… know that families who sit together are less likely to eat high-calorie foods.” A family meal provides a larger portion of protein, calcium and vitamins. This is obviously due to the fact that when family meals are provided, they are typically home cooked and do not contain the unhealthiness of pre-packaged food. Sue Gilbert, MS nutritionist, explains further. “Homemade meals don't necessarily mean healthy meals. When children eat at home but not with the family, they generally do not eat a very balanced diet." When children grow up having family dinners at home, they usually pay more attention to their food intake and eating habits as adults. As a result, children who eat dinner with their family are less likely to become obese. This is proven by a study done in...half of a sheet of paper...they constantly observe the adults around them and eventually learn good manners from the examples set by their parents. "It is at the family table that we learn to speak, we learn to behave, to take turns, to be polite, not to interrupt, to share, and when we have guests, to entertain: good lessons for success in life!" Purdue University reports. (Purdue University, 1)As you can see, it is very important that family meals take place in homes. Not only does it improve a person's nutrition and education, but it also helps them have healthier relationships, stay away from harmful substances, and develop important skills that will be used throughout their lives. Many studies have shown over time that it is extremely advantageous to organize family dinners. By encouraging family dinners at home we can help improve the future of children's lives.