Parenting Perspective 

In many households, mealtimes can become rushed, or family members might sit together in silence, distracted by their devices. Introducing a simple and consistent game at the dinner table can transform this routine into a meaningful bonding habit that strengthens family relationships. The most effective games are those that are easy to play daily, naturally spark conversation, and make everyone feel included. 

### Try the ‘Highs and Lows’ Game 

A wonderfully simple and effective game is ‘Highs and Lows’. Each person around the table shares one “high” (a good moment) and one “low” (a challenge) from their day. This activity opens the door to shared laughter, genuine empathy, and the practice of active listening. It teaches children to celebrate small joys and to feel safe expressing their struggles, confident that their family will listen without judgement. 

### Rotate Simple and Fun Prompts 

To maintain variety, you can use a different conversational prompt each day. Consider rotating questions such as: 

• What made you laugh today? 

• What new thing did you notice? 

• What would you like to thank Allah Almighty for today? 

These prompts are light-hearted, brief, and easy to repeat, making the practice sustainable as a long-term family ritual. 

### Maintain a Playful yet Respectful Tone 

While the atmosphere should be warm and humorous, it is important to set a clear expectation that everyone listens without interruptions. If younger children have short attention spans, keep the game brief and engaging. This helps them learn consistency without feeling pressured. Over time, the game itself becomes a source of comfort, marking mealtimes as safe and connected moments for the entire family. 

The true power of this practice is not found in the game’s complexity, but in the simple, consistent habit of coming together, sharing laughter, and weaving gratitude into the fabric of daily life. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam places great emphasis on family togetherness and the importance of gentle communication. Transforming mealtimes into moments of gratitude and connection reflects the Prophetic example of uniting the hearts of a family. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Nahal (16), Verses 114: 

‘So eat from that sustenance provided to you by Allah (Almighty), that which is lawful and absolutely pure; and be grateful for the bestowments of Allah (Almighty), if it is the case that you seek to exclusively worship Him.’ 

This verse serves as a beautiful reminder that mealtimes offer not just physical nourishment, but also a chance to express gratitude, which table games can naturally encourage. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 1820, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The food of two is sufficient for three, and the food of three is sufficient for four.’ 

This hadith teaches that eating together fosters a spirit of sharing, contentment, and closeness, all of which are values reinforced by family table games. 

By introducing a simple, joyful game at the dinner table, parents create a rhythm that bonds hearts, nurtures gratitude, and reminds children that family time is both playful and sacred. Habits like these become anchors of stability that support a child’s emotional and spiritual development.