What you do in your home and with your family matters—to your kids and to our communities. Children feel safe and are able to reach their full potential when families and communities are strong. Strong family connections provide the foundation for children to thrive.
Just one meal a week makes a difference!
Eating meals as a family can make a big difference in our lives. Kids who have regular family meals make healthier food choices, feel closer to their families and parents, and do better in school. Mealtimes are critical to foster communication and connection.
Utah youth who eat at least one meal a week with their family are:
- 45% less likely to feel depressed.
- 70% less likely to vape.
- 54% less likely to consider suicide.
Data from the 2023 Utah Student Health and Risk Prevention (SHARP) survey also shows there is a significant correlation between loneliness among Utah youth and the frequency of family meals, the number of hours of sleep a child gets, and time spent on electronic devices. The more family meals, the more sleep a child gets each night, and the less time spent on electronic devices, the healthier and happier teens are.
Kids aren’t the only ones who benefit from strong families. Positive, supportive, and warm social connections help us live longer, healthier lives. Family connections can help us manage stress, improve our mental and emotional well-being, and boost our self-confidence. (Sources: U.S. Surgeon General Social Connection, Family Relationships and Well-Being, Strengthening Families, Social Relationships and Health, CDC)
Start small—connection grows from consistency. Start with a few meals a week that work for everyone’s schedule. To make the most of mealtime, turn off screens, sit down together, and give everyone a chance to talk and express themselves.
Join us for Family Connection Week (June 9-15)
Families across Utah are invited to celebrate Family Connection Week from June 9–15, 2025—a dedicated time to unplug from devices and reconnect through meaningful, screen-free activities. This special week encourages families to be fully present with one another to create lasting memories and stronger bonds. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive. Need some inspiration? We’ve started a list of ideas for family activities here: https://strongfamilies.utah.gov/family-connections/
Positive, in-person interactions lay the foundation for resilience, safety, and success for children and adults alike. Family Connection Week encourages families to “disconnect to reconnect” and take time to talk, laugh, and connect—without distractions.
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