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Once upon a time families would gather around the dinner table each night, to share some food, but also to share what happened throughout the day. Dinner time was a time to get together and reconnect as a family. Unfortunately our busy lives and hectic schedules make it hard to continue with this age-old family tradition. Nevertheless, we should make an effort to get everyone together for dinner considering the benefits sharing this meal has.

Get to know your kids better and find out about their day over dinner. Encourage everyone to share something about their day while you eat. By taking an interest in your kids lives, you can quickly pick up on the fact that they start to behave in a way you don't approve.

When you show an interest in what your kids are doing, you are also showing them that you care about what is happening to them. This alone will keep them out of a lot of trouble. Children with parents who play an active part in their lives are less likely to run with the wrong crowd, drink and smoke. Girls are less likely to become pregnant, or sexually active for that matter.

Of course dinner is also all about the food you eat. Don't just grab some takeout on your way home, or send everyone to fend for themselves in a pantry full of junk food. We all know that there are quite a few health problems from fast food, including obesity, diabetes and heart disease. Eating a variety of healthy foods will prevent these health issues.

Any healthy meal will include a balanced combination of whole grains, vegetables and some sort of lean protein like chicken of fish. Getting your family used to this new healthy fare can be a bit of a challenge, so start gradually adding healthier foods including more veggies and fruit. Sneak an extra serving of vegetables in their macaroni and cheese, or pile some fresh berries on top of their ice cream.

You don't have to slave all day in the kitchen to make a healthy meal happening. One of your biggest time savers will be a menu planning sheet. On the weekends, take a moment to plan the meals for the following week and write them down on your sheet. Make out your grocery list, using your worksheet as a guide and head to the store. This way you know you have what you need to prepare each meal when you get home, and your spouse can get a head start on dinner if you are running late. Of course you can save even more time and just subscribe to our menu planner. The Healthy Menu Mailer includes seven healthy dinner recipes, along with a menu planning sheet, and of course a grocery list and is delivered to your email inbox each week.