I really never gave much thought to sharing with people the "why" I do platter dinners. Sure it looks pretty and cuts down on dishes with a larger family but this really goes beyond the glamour of Instagram Shots. This is a fundamental development focus for my children. The benefits of not having as many dishes to do and getting pretty platter photos is a secondary benefit.
Now before I share my insight I will say I am not an early childcare educator, medical professional or chef. I am a mom. A mother to two little humans whom we try to raise to be confident and independent people. Allow me to share my insight on this dinner format and why families of young children should practice family style dinners.
CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT
This style of cooking works to help develop motor skills, and decision making. Children will utilize their small motor skills to scoop and serve themselves. This also allows them to make the choices of what they like to eat, encourage trying new things and take what they will eat (ok this is a lot of learning over time but yes Toddlers are very indecisive and sometimes can't make up their mind) to limit waste on their plates of food they refuse to eat.
We have found it helpful for our kids to have them learn how to pour their own milk, grip cutlery, cut food and other fine motor skill development through this Montessori style learning.
THE MASTER PLATTER
Large platter formats (like the post here ) are a great example of making dinner easy to get to the table. By putting as many of the items, condiments and sides on one platter you make the trip to and from the table that much easier. I truly find this easier for my family because you can see what you all need ahead of making the trips to the table. Then when the platter arrives we all sit to eat at once.
Plus fewer dishes was never a bad idea in my head!
PORTION CONTROL
Now this almost seems like "they'll over eat" and to a point one can. Taco nights are delicious and all but honestly there is something about only taking what you can eat vs having someone shove a plate full of food in front of you assuming that's the right portion.
Letting our kids choose how much or how little they want to eat we found it has been helpful to ensure everyone leaves the table full to their choosing.
More often than not I am surprised what they do choose to eat and how much.
I hope you try to apply a family style dinner format to your home especially with young kids. They are quick learners and thrive on their success.
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