Introduction
In this session, participants explore food and families. The meaning of food in the lives of families, with inherent joys and tensions, is realized through discussion, drama, and art.Eating together is important family time; it validates the importance in family and offers good socialization, which is very important.
- Gale Mills
Food can be a very sensitive subject in the lives of families. This can be particularly true when youth have strong preferences that conflict with the adults. Additionally, eating is often contentious for youth with eating disorders. Be sensitive to participants' cues; respect their willingness to talk or to simply listen.
An alternate activity in this session involves writing poetry. Leader Resource 1, Writing Poetry with Youth, has useful information on working with youth and poetry.
Some questions for reflection in this session provide an opportunity for participants to reflect upon the ways culture manifest itself in families. You will need to be sensitive to how these discussions are handled. Watch for answers that might indicate stereotyping, including gender stereotyping. Your response to any such remarks should not be defensive or accusatory, but should lovingly guide participants to broaden their perspective. If you believe such discussions might not be handled by the group in a mature way or if you are uncomfortable leading such discussions simply omit an references to ethnic or racial identities.
Last updated on Tuesday, April 29, 2008.
