Family-Style Meals

The family-style meal service offers many advantages to children's development process by enhancing:

·        Motor skills

·        Language

·        Self-esteem

·        Social skills

·        Table manners

·        Independence

Children develop these skills through interaction with adults and other children. Motor skills are developed by children serving plates themselves and passing food dishes to others. Social skills and language may be developed through light conversation at the table. The adult at the table can encourage language development by talking about the food provided, where it comes from, good eating habits, and proper table manners. The family-style meal service provides a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere where children feel free to talk with each other. Family-style meals may also have a very positive effect on the picky eater. When children sit together and serve themselves, the picky eater may see others accepting foods and want to try the foods as well. The adult can encourage the picky eater to taste the food.