12 Ways to Keep Family Dinners Peaceful This Thanksgiving

This Thanksgiving, many Americans will face the challenge of spending time with their families while avoiding conflict. Fortunately, experts have identified 12 strategies to help make your family dinner a peaceful one.

According to NPR’s Life Kit, some tips include:

* Setting boundaries before the gathering
* Choosing a comfortable seating arrangement
* Steering conversations away from sensitive topics
* Practicing active listening and empathy
* Using humor to lighten the mood

By implementing these strategies, you can create a more positive and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Whether you’re looking forward to seeing your family or dreading it, there are ways to make this holiday a more pleasant one.

Note: I simplified the text by removing unnecessary phrases, focusing on the main message, and condensing the information into a concise format.

Source: https://www.npr.org/2025/11/26/nx-s1-5612567/thanksgiving-family-fighting-conflict