Family Facts

Did you know?

• Participating in family rituals that foster togetherness and communication is strongly linked to adolescent mental health.
  
  
• Teens who eat with their families most days have better grades and less depression and substance abuse than kids who frequently eat on their own.
  
  
• University studies show that young kids and teens who eat regularly with their families eat more fruits, vegetables, fiber and whole grains and consume less soda and snack food.
  
  
• A 2004 YMCA of the USA study found that parents who received support from community organizations such as YMCAs reported positive experiences for their children, saying the programs enabled their children to engage with other kids, provided positive influence and offered role models.
  
  
• Children who develop healthy exercise and eating habits while they are young are more likely to continue to lead healthy lifestyles through adulthood.