Initiated in 2003, the Centre for Fathering realized that Singaporeans are often too busy with work, school and other personal commitments to enjoy a meal with their family. Themed “a ritual of the heart” fathers, in particular, are encouraged to treat their families to a meal or even prepare dinner on the day. Eat With Your Family Day, that is happening on 18 May serves as a reminder on the importance of having meals as a family. Eating together goes a long way towards keeping the family close. Singapore companies are encouraged to let their staff off at 5pm on the day, to allow their employees to return home in time for dinner with their families. In Philippine there is that Christian slogan “The family that eats together stays together”, which reinforces the Filipino tradition of having a family meal together. Citing a study that says the more families eat together, the more likely children and adolescents will consume healthy food, family members are also encouraged to eat together.
