Tuesday, December 2, 2014 3:11 pm

By CARLA BUSH

Event highlights the many benefits to families of "dining in" and resources developed and provided by family and consumer sciences professionals

December 3, 2014 celebrated the first annual Family & Consumer Sciences Day-the national celebration that educates families about the importance of preparing healthy meals and "dining in" together. Some benefits of "Dining In":
- Better grades for kids and teens who share family meals
- Improve family relationships
- Save your family money
- Increase your family's consumption of healthy foods
"With the high rate of obesity in this country, especially among children, Family & Consumer Sciences Day calls attention to something simple families can do to be healthier-prepare and eat a nutritious meal together. We are proud to take part in this important initiative," Carla Bush, UT FCS Agent said.
The first annual Family & Consumer Sciences Day, launched by the American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences (AAFCS), has set a goal of 200,000 families preparing and eating a healthy meal together on December 3rd. December 3rd was chosen as Family & Consumer Sciences Day to honor AAFCS Founder Ellen Swallow Richards, first female graduate of MIT.

Field of Family & Consumer Sciences
Family and consumer sciences (FCS) draws from broad and diverse disciplines to develop and provide content and programs that help individuals become more effective critical thinkers and problem solvers. Through discovery and delivery of research-based knowledge, FCS professionals help individuals and families develop essential skills to successfully live and work in a complex world. Professionals in the field are uniquely qualified to speak on many critical issues affecting individuals and families, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, wisely managing personal and family finances, and creating supportive relationships with family members, friends, and co-workers. They are located nationwide in a variety of practice settings, including secondary schools, universities, government agencies, and businesses.
For more info, visit www.aafcs.org/FCSday.