Is the dining table the real heart of the home?

September is a competitive time for many of us. It’s the end of the Summer break and a time to think about the year ahead without the pressure of ‘The New Year’ (in the midst of Christmas festivities). This, combined with a recently finished kitchen renovation, has got me thinking about conversations at home.

I have told this story before in my articles. I mention it again here because I think today more than ever, we need reminding of the importance of communication, connection, conversation. Some time ago, I was working on legacy planning with a client. He said that he now felt that everything was in order, but that the one thing that was likely to cause an argument was who was going to get the dining table. So many memories were made around the table, that everyone would want to have it their life. I thought it was lovely that this was what the family would fight over.

Let’s get round the table again

I believe that the dining table – or maybe it’s the kitchen table – deserves a very central place in our homes. The dining room may be a thing of the past and there is always the temptation to just grab a bite in front of the telly. But for me, it’s really important that we make the effort to get round the table again. Not because I think formal meals are a must. But because it’s a place where we can actively come together and share moments with friends and family.

Recognising the value of this time together

Yes, meals will play a part, but it’s about more than that too….preparing food, setting the table, staying a while for a chat. And maybe it’s not about a meal at all. Maybe it’s homework or working alongside your children. Maybe it’s playing a game of cards or monopoly. Doing a puzzle, a Lego build, a craft project. Baking. Having a cuppa or glass of wine. All these things happen at the dining table in homes up and down the country. We need to recognise the value of this time together and see the value in investing in this space so we get the most out of those moments.

This is true not matter what time of life you’re at. A young family coming together to have breakfast before school and work and play together at the  end of the day. Older children coming home for the weekend while at uni and having a cup of tea with you. Maybe you’re a couple whose kids have left home and it’s time to reconnect as a couple again. Maybe you’ve never had kids and create these moments with lots of friends round.

A less intense way to connect

Here’s why I think the table is such a great place to spend time together. The table creates an opportunity to catch up while doing something else together. When you’re at a table and other things are going on, it feels less intense. When you’re prepping a meal or eating, playing a game or drawing, barriers to conversation often come down.

These conversations around the table need to be cherished. They are a learning opportunity – whether it is about sharing opinions or ideas; checking in; reconnecting after time apart; to plan; to laugh; to just show that you see the person – really see them. It’s a chance for a real conversation and connection and that’s important (take a look at our last issue of SKQ for more on this). So take a look at your trusty table. See what you can do to really make most out of the space. You don’t want to miss the chance to really connect.