The YWCA Wheeling Family Violence Prevention Program hosted a free family dinner night to educate local parents about the importance of good nutrition and eating dinner together as a family.
About 30 people attended the Sept. 22 event at the Chapline Street agency. Cheryl Kaczor, West Virginia University Extension agent, told attendees that research has proven eating together as a family lowers the risks of substance abuse in teens, and it leads to improved school performance and overall behavior.
In addition, Kaczor said, gathering together gives children the opportunity to improve their communication and social skills.
Nutritionally, children tend to eat more fruits and vegetables during family meals and consume smaller portions than if they were eating out at a restaurant.
Kaczor encouraged families who are on the go to brown-bag healthy meals, such as turkey sandwiches on whole-grain bread, a bag of carrot sticks and an apple. If they are headed to a ball game, they can call it a "tailgate party."
"The big issue is being together, spending time together," Kaczor said.
The event was free and open to the public. Olive Garden at The Highlands provided dinner for all those in attendance.