This month many of us will gather with family for Thanksgiving dinner. We use this time to reconnect with the loved ones in our life and reflect on what we are thankful for. Family dinners do not need to be a big event to have a positive impact in the lives of family members though.

In fact, research suggests that holding regular family dinners translates into the lower likelihood of children engaging in risky behaviors. Family meal time appears to be a strong protective factor against alcohol use and other substance use such as marijuana and tobacco. Past studies have shown that family meals provide many benefits, including offering a venue for parents to communicate with their adolescents about their daily activities, as well as monitor their moods and whereabouts (Source: 2008 Journal of Adolescent Health). Researchers noted in the Journal article that families who ate five or more meals together each week saw significant improved communication and behavior in their children.