One of the most attractive features of Cranford is the fact that it is such a “family oriented town.”  Lots of programs for children to be involved in, a Recreation Center for supervised play, an outstanding school system, parks and playgrounds that are always swarming with kids, and a general feeling of camaraderie among neighbors and residents.  They say “it takes a village to raise a child,” and I can’t think of a better village than Cranford.  Everyone looks out for each other’s kids, takes turns shuttling them to and from activities, and it is one of the joys of summer to see and hear scores of happy children playing in the streets.  Many might think that this type of scenario doesn’t exist any more . . . . but we are actually living it.  Cranford is, undoubtedly, a family town.

And that is exactly why the Cranford Municipal Alliance, in partnership with the Township, Chamber of Commerce, the Office of Business & Economic Development, the School District, and all Houses of Worship support  Cranford Family Dinner Night. The idea behind this is to encourage Cranford families to eat dinner together at least once a week. No one can deny that the “family dinner hour” is dying in modern society.  Everyone has their own work, school, sport, and activity schedule, making it extraordinarily difficult to crve out an hour each and every day to sit down at a table together as a family for dinner.  Yet there is SO much research, and, in fact, common sense, to point out the benefits of doing just that.  Imagine a time to sit, face to face, with no electronics in hand, no texting, and actually teaching your children through example to TALK and hold a viable conversation?!  Not to mention catching up with what is going on in everyone’s day to day life that you might otherwise miss.  And there is no question that just taking that little bit of time together builds family bonds and strengthens children’s character.  Studies show, children who eat dinner with their family at least once per week are less likely to make unsafe choices. They are better equipped to stand up to peer pressure and more connected to family. (Adipex) With all of that in mind, local restaurants, take-out eateries, and grocery stores are helping out with with special offers on Tuesdays, the ‘official’ designated Cranford Family Dinner night.  It might not be realistic to have a family dinner hour EVERY day, but now families can at least designate one day a week for a special family dinner time.

Lots of local stores and restaurants have jumped on the bandwagon to offer specials and discounts to support this idea.  Check in with your favorite local place to find out if they offer any specials.  And tell the kids to designate Tuesday night as family dinner night!