5 Ways to Bring Back the Family Dinner

As with any New Year's resolution, you have to ease yourself into eating as a family. Start by having one dinner together a week, and then slowly add more as your schedule permits.

Does your job keep you working well past dinnertime? Try seeing if you can finish your work at home rather than staying at the office. This way you can enjoy some family time and a much-needed break. If that doesn't work, and the kids are still up when you come home, serve them a small snack to enjoy while you eat your dinner.

Who said family dinners have to be home cooked? If a lack of time is keeping your crew from eating together, then turn to your favorite restaurant for a little help. Of course, if you insist on serving something that doesn't come from a takeout container, try whipping up some freezable meals during the weekend. That way when it's time for dinner, all you have to do is toss it in the oven.

Dinner prep doesn't have to be a one-woman show. Enlist your kids to set the table or help you in the kitchen. They may be more willing to sit down together if it gives them a chance to show off their skills.

There's a huge difference between being at the table and being present at the table. Keep all phones and tablets in a separate room, and turn the TV off when it's time to eat. By creating an engaging eating environment, your family is more likely to extend the meal and continue the tradition. If you think this will be a struggle for your device-obsessed family, then maybe it's time to go on a tech cleanse.