It’s ok if it’s messy and chaotic

As parents, we all know that meal times with kids can be a bit chaotic. Between spilled drinks, food flung across the table, and siblings bickering over who gets the last chicken nugget, it can feel like the opposite of the calm, relaxing atmosphere we hoped for. But despite the chaos, it’s important that we make time to have real and deep conversations around the dinner table where everyone has a voice.

At The Table Talk Project, we believe that these conversations can be transformational. They give us an opportunity to connect with each other on a deeper level, to share our hopes and fears, and to learn from one another. But in order to have these conversations, we need to create a space where everyone feels comfortable speaking up, even if they’re only three feet tall.

So how can we create this kind of space? Here are a few tips:

1. 1. Set the tone: Start by setting the tone for the conversation. You might say something like, “Tonight, we’re going to have a special dinner where we talk about things that are important to us. We are going to do The Table Talk project. Everyone will have a chance to share their thoughts, and we’ll listen respectfully to each other.”
   2. Create a safe space: Make sure that everyone feels safe and comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. This means no interrupting, no judging, and no dismissing other people’s ideas.
   3. Keep it age-appropriate: Tailor the conversation to the age of your children. Younger children might need more guidance, while older children might be able to handle more complex topics.
   4. Start with a fun question or one of our conversations starters: Start the conversation with a fun question to get everyone talking. For example, you might ask, “If you could have any superpower, what would it be?” This can help break the ice and get everyone comfortable sharing their thoughts.
   5. Listen actively: When someone is speaking, make sure you’re really listening. Ask follow-up questions and show that you’re interested in what they have to say. Use the three questions in the Dessert tab to bring closure to the meal time.

Remember, the most important thing is to make sure that everyone has a chance to speak and that everyone feels heard. By creating a safe and supportive space, you can help your family have deeper conversations that will bring you closer together. So, the next time you’re sitting around the dinner table, take a deep breath, embrace the chaos, and start a conversation that will bring you closer together.