It's dinner time and the meal is almost ready. But where is everyone? The kids are playing with their friends and your husband is out in the yard. Does this sound familiar? It's hard enough getting a meal prepared everyday let alone having everyone around the table at the same time. Eating as a family on a daily basis is something that will bring you all together and provide an opportunity for you to open up to your children.

Even before you begin eating the meal you can set aside some time for your kids to help. Make one day for each child you have. Tell them they can choose their favorite meal and go from there.

If you feel family dinner is a vital way to grow closer, be sure to share it with the family. Get everyone together and tell them you want to begin having dinner as a family regularly. If it is a new idea to your family, start out on a small scale. Maybe just have dinner once or twice a week so everyone can get used to the idea. Also be sure to let everyone know that all distractions should be turned off. No cell phones of texting and especially no T.V.

Having the same meals over and over again can make some family members not want to even have the meal that is cooked. They may just show up grab a sandwhich and watch T.V. Get a recipe book and put some time into whatever it is that you are cooking. There are literally thousands of yummy recipes that will be sure to satisfy all. If you choose to do a mexican dish spice things up and put on some spanish music. Dinner time doesn't always have to be a boring time.

If your family is good friends with some of the neighbors, be sure to invite them over once a month. This way not only will your family grow closer but you'll also grow as friends.

There are many things you can do in order to keep dinner time an exciting time. Engage your children in family discussion and ask them a bunch of questions. Be curtious and show an interest in everything that they are saying. Also dinner time doesnt always have to be around the table.

In the summer time you can plan a picnic and make it a day activity. Bring a frisbee and soccer ball and engage in games as a family. Also maybe once a month it would be a good idea to go out to a family restaurant. If your finances are to tight maybe twice a month. There are lots of wonderful restaurants that are designed for the family.