That's why the organization is launching a new county-wide initiative "Family Meals -- A Great Time To Connect" in hopes of strengthening the bond between families.
“Communication is the key to raising healthy and happy children” said Bruce Kelly, coalition coordinator.
Family meals offer that opportunity on a daily basis. But the conversations can’t be one sided, Kelly added.
" No teen likes to get the 'third degree' at dinner," he said.
Instead, parents should initiate the conversation by talking about their day which will put their child at ease and allow them to participate in the conversation. Making them part of the conversation and not the subject of the conversation will yield dividends.
The initiative kicked off with the distribution of an oversized post card at PTA meetings and other events for county parents. It stressed the benefits of eating meals together. Studies show that one such benefit is lower rates of substance abuse among teens who eat dinner at home at least five times a week.
In the beginning of the new year, Putnam CTC will be working with local pizza parlors and students to adorn pizza boxes with a conversation starter sticker. The hope is to do this on Friday nights – a popular time for families to share a pizza.
For information on the program, visit: www.putnamncadd.org or call 845.225.4646 ext. 13
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