Now, I like to read while I eat. I always have. In circumstances of sufficient desperation, I’ve been known to make do with the backs of cereal boxes and milk cartons. But this has always been a solitary occupation, and it never occurred to me to bring a book to the dinner table when the whole family sat down to eat dinner together. Apparently, however, the onset of portable digital devices has disrupted the basic concept of the family dinner.
My advice is to make it very clear that phones, tablets, books, and any other viewing, talking, or reading device are banned from the table during dinner and any other communal meals. Take a break from the world. It will still be there when you’re done.