We all know the value of sitting around the dinner table and talking, but what about when life pulls us in every direction? Between school runs, sports practice, and grocery trips, families often spend more time in the car than at the table. The good news: the car can become its own “moving table,” a place where conversations flow, laughter builds, and connection grows.
Here are five ways to turn your car trips into moments that matter (without losing your sanity at the next red light).
1. Create a No-Phone Zone
Just like the dinner table, car rides are a chance to put the outside world on pause. Set a family “car time” rule: no headphones, no endless scrolling for short trips.
If anyone complains, just remind them that you once survived a two-hour drive with nothing but a broken tape deck and the sound of your dad whistling off-key. Perspective.
2. Use Conversation Starters
Dinner tables have Back at the Table conversation starters – and your car can too. Keep a few printed cards in the glove box, or pull one from the app before you leave.
You’ll be amazed at how a question like “If your pet could drive, where would they go first?” can turn a boring trip into a full-blown debate. (Spoiler: the dog is always going to Macca’s.)
3. Share “Roses and Thorns”
Dinner rituals work in cars too. Ask each family member for a “rose” (something good about their day) and a “thorn” (something tricky).
Be warned, kids can get creative. One day the “thorn” might be a maths test, the next day it might be “Mum breathing too loudly while I was on Minecraft.” Take it as a compliment – you’re memorable.
4. Tell Stories on the Go
The car is a perfect place for storytelling. Parents can share memories from their own childhood (yes, even the embarrassing ones).
The bonus here is your kids can’t escape. They’re strapped in and legally obliged to listen while you explain, again, how you walked to school uphill both ways and then went to footy practice.
5. End With Gratitude
Before you pull into the driveway, ask everyone to share one thing they’re grateful for.
Sure, sometimes the answers will be deep and meaningful. Other times, you’ll get “I’m grateful Dad finally found the right turn.” Both count.
The Car as a Moving Table
Life is busy. Sometimes dinner together won’t happen every night – but that doesn’t mean connection has to wait. Your car can be more than just a vehicle; it can be a moving dinner table, filled with stories, laughter, and the gift of being heard.
So next time you’re stuck in traffic or driving across town, remember: it’s not wasted time. It’s table talk time.
It isn’t about the perfect conversation – It is just about having a conversation.
✨ Try using our Back at the Table web app before your next trip for conversation starters that make every ride meaningful (and maybe even funnier).
Share this blog with those who could use a little bit of support in the car and around the dinner table 😉
