Did you eat dinner with your family tonight?

As a college student, I don't get many opportunities to eat with my family. However, just thought you would like to know that the family that eats together really does stay together. I'm writing a research paper on the effects of family dinners and how to implement them into your busy schedule. Family dinners have been positively associated with a better social life for kids, less drug and alcohol abuse and better communication skills at an early age. Who wouldn't want to give this to their kids. While family time is crunched here are a few things the experts, as well as moms, are giving us: IT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE AN EXTRAVAGENT MEAL! Even 30 minutes a day is better than no time at all. DON'T OVER-SCHEDULE YOUR KIDS. We all have lots to do... school, work and extracurricular activities are all necessary, but when they get in the way of quality family time we are hurting, rather than helping, the family.

Now, I know that I don't have a family yet, but I think this is helpful. What about you? My teacher actually asked me to get some feedback from mothers who have implemented the ideas of doing family dinners, so what do you think? What is most helpful for you and your family?