This month, two experts discuss the benefits of family meal time.

Dorothy Hebert is the executive director of Rhode Island's Kids First, a program that works with families and children through schools and child care centers. She's also the mother of two college and one high-school children.

Diane Beals, EdD, is an associate professor and the director of the University of Tulsa's School of Education. She studies the development of language in children, including the effect of conversations at meal time. For 14 years, she has worked on Harvard University's "Home-School Study of Language and Literacy Development" research team.

DH: When we talk about family meals, what are we talking about?

It's the entire household, with no one missing, sitting around any table together to share food and conversation.

DH: What about family meals as far as the family's overall nutrition is concerned?

In my home, the most nutritious meals are served around our table. No matter what the main entrée, and it could be take-out, I cut lots of fresh veggies and fruit and serve them as side dishes. I also put a whole-grain bread item in the middle of the table. And, we drink milk with every meal.

Also, when you're talking about good nutrition, food and how it is served and eaten cannot be totally separated. I firmly believe that food served with a dose of family togetherness in a caring atmosphere is more "nutritious" than just food alone.

DB: How do you recommend parents approach mealtime conversation?

Conversation should be just above the child's level so that it is challenging. Pick a topic that your kids find interesting. Then lead your child through the discussion. If dinnertime doesn't work for your family, set a time later when everyone needs a break from homework or chores to have a snack and conversation together.

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