You've all seen it. As you follow the hostess to your table with your family, you casually glance at the other patrons eating their meals. You notice that the youngest child is completely engaged in a tablet or smartphone, completely ignoring their family. The adults seem to have no problem with this, as it gives them some peace from the constant chatter of their excitable child.

Electronics have taken over our world. We can no longer go somewhere without having a screen stare right back at us. It's not often that we get a break from these screens and can actually spend quality time with one another. One of the most important times, as I'm sure you've heard, is sitting down together at the dinner table. It does not count if the family is sitting down together, but electronics are keeping someone from participating in the conversation.

It may be convenient to let your child play with their iPad at the dinner table. It may be easier to give them something to be interested in rather than talk to them yourself. But remember this: your children will only be children for so long. They will grow up and will hopefully turn into productive members of society. So listen to their silly stories about what happened at school. Ask them meaningful questions and get to know your children.

Also be mindful of your own use of electronics at the table. Children learn from seeing. Make sure your child knows that it is alright to go without an iPad or smart phone for 30 minutes. Not only will this teach them good manners, but it will also show that you care about them and what happens in their lives.