More than half of parents say mealtimes are interrupted by tech

A poll of 2,000 parents with children found 16% use mobile phones or tablets at mealtimes, while 24% sit in front of the TV. On average, families enjoy four evening meals together a week – but 66% would like the chance to sit down together for meals more often.

The main obstacles stopping people from sitting down is different schedules (26%), eating different foods (17%) and having other commitments (15%). But one in 10 parents say they aren’t home in time, while 7% claim the family doesn’t want to.

Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate and goalkeeper Vitezslav Jaros sat down with AXA Health to discuss the importance of mealtimes with their family when they were growing up, and the positive impact it had on them.

Konate said: “It’s very important. At home I have six brothers, a sister, plus my parents. When I started to live alone and have dinner alone, I felt the difference completely. The mood when you eat with people, it’s better.” 

He went on to add how mealtimes with family provide the perfect time to open up about tricky subjects, as it can act as a distraction.

He said: “I think it’s the right moment to talk. Everyone enjoys the food, and they can be honest with you, because they have something to do, not just speak.”

Jaros added: “It’s a chance to have a good conversation and enjoy time together. You can talk about your day and what’s going on.” 

Dr Imren Sterno, a spokesperson for AXA Health, which commissioned the research, said: “Mealtimes are important to help families bond, but it looks like a lot of families aren’t able to do so as much as they’d like.

“We all live busy lives so there’s no blame. But for those who can, it can be beneficial to spend time with loved ones, particularly without tech at the table. It gives us a chance to really understand and learn more about each other. Human connection is fundamental for people to grow.”

This was backed up by the findings, as 85% of the parents polled believe shared mealtimes give children the opportunity to discuss their thoughts and feelings.

Also among the key benefits were strengthened relationships (50%), giving people the opportunity to speak about the highs and lows of the day (43%), and helping connect with family members (39%).

Others said it helps their children feel more valued, happier and gives them the time to discuss important issues – whether they be family, health or societal issues (all 36%).

For parents themselves, 57% felt happier when they ate a family meal together, 33% felt valued and 31% felt supported. While 26% felt more motivated, and one in five (20%) feel less lonely.

Another added benefit for parents was that 69% felt more comfortable opening up to the rest of their family about their thoughts and feelings.

Dr Sterno added: “The research shows there’s a real benefit for both parents and children when they sit down together. There are overwhelming benefits for all parties, which can’t be understated.

“Carving out that time to connect without any distractions can make you closer as a family and help not only with your family life, but also make you feel happier generally, too.”