In a world where screen time often overshadows face-to-face interaction, one cafe is taking a stand. Located in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, The Family Table Cafe is now rewarding families that can enjoy a meal without using their phones. The cafe offers a 10% discount to families of four or more who can commit to a phone-free dining experience.
Owner James Parker initiated this policy to promote familial connections after noticing many patrons absorbed in their devices instead of engaging with one another. “It’s been a real hit,” Parker shared with local news. “Families are embracing it, and we’ve received amazing feedback.”
To facilitate this connection, once a table opts into the no-phone challenge, servers provide a selection of classic games like Hangman and Tic Tac Toe. These interactive games are a great way to spark conversation and laughter, as opposed to solitary activities like coloring. Parker’s inspiration for this initiative stemmed from observing a particular family who frequented the cafe. Despite their shared meals, he often found them distracted by their phones. “They’d come in for breakfast every Sunday, and while they were together, they weren’t really together,” he remarked. This realization prompted him to create a setting that encourages genuine interaction.
It’s easy to overlook how often we reach for our phones, whether to take food photos for Instagram or to keep kids entertained during meals. However, striving for this discount serves as a reminder to focus on our loved ones and cherish the moments spent together. Interestingly, while the policy initially targeted families of four or more, The Family Table Cafe has made it clear on social media that families of all sizes are welcome to participate in the discount.
Parker is thrilled with the positive response to this initiative, hoping it continues to inspire families to prioritize each other over their screens. “It’s all about making time for conversation,” he said. “Look into my eyes, I’m here with you. How was your day?”
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In summary, The Family Table Cafe is redefining dining experiences by incentivizing families to engage with one another rather than their smartphones. By fostering connection through interactive games and offering discounts, they’re promoting the invaluable practice of spending quality time together.