Everyone's talking about family meals these days.

News stories show how busy families are making a commitment to increase the number of meals they eat together each week. Experts are promoting family meals as a way to fight childhood obesity and boost student achievement.

But we all know that family meals can go awry. Uncommunicative kids, annoyed parents or disappointing conversations can lead to an unsatisfying time together.

The good news is, some simple, positive strategies can make family meals a delight. Here are five hints for family meals you'll love:

1. Keep mealtimes peaceful.

Save disciplinary issues and major disagreements for another time so that no one feels tense or afraid at the table. Let your answering machine take any phone calls during this time, and turn off the TV.

2. Use positive strategies for teaching table manners, letting go of expectations of perfection.

Here are a few ideas: