Children's social experiences with peers and friends during primary school mealtimes

Mealtimes have rarely been considered outside a healthy eating agenda yet may be important social contexts for children's social, emotional and moral development. Little research has examined the social value of time spent in the school lunch room. This study examined the nature of children's interactions, activities and experiences of mealtimes and their perceptions of the value of social experiences during these times. A total of 316 9-10-year-old pupils (53% girls) from 11 classes in 4 schools completed closed response questionnaires and 16 children were subsequently interviewed to provide detailed information about the nature of their mealtime experiences, interactions and activities with peers and how these relate to feelings about school. Findings indicate that most children enjoy mealtimes because of the opportunity they provide to be with and converse with friends and other peers about the issues that are significant to them. These social occasions overlap with playground life but are distinctive and afford children different social opportunities and activities. The relative freedom offered in these settings make them important sites for peer relations processes and co-construction of peer culture. Findings are discussed in the light of suggestions that mealtimes should be managed for social and educational purposes.