Millions of families plan to keep up parts of their lockdown routines even after restrictions are completely lifted.
Almost four of out of five have pledged to continue with benefits they only discovered thanks to the interruption to normal life.
Spending quality time together, going for family walks and sitting down to shared meals are the top three crisis side-effects mums and dads are anxious not to lose.
A study shows 78% aim to retain some aspect of their new regime.
Almost half of families (48%) have done more exercise together since lockdown began in March.
Nearly a third (30%) are enjoying more meaningful conversations at mealtimes. And one family in five even say the pandemic has been “beneficial” – with upsides including spending less, not rushing so much and laughing more.
The research into families’ changing habits as a result of coronavirus was carried out by food giant McCain. Singer Myleene Klass, 42, an ambassador for McCain, said her own family had found some positives amid the “roller coaster of emotions”.
The former Hear’Say star, a mum-of-three, said: “It has definitely moved me to see what families have enjoyed about lockdown – the slower pace of life and how quality family time, especially mealtimes, has become so important to many.
“We have all struggled at various points but I’ve embraced being at home more and we will continue to ensure we keep our precious time together as a family going.”
McCain spokesman Mark Hodge said: “It’s uplifting to see how parents are reflecting on their time during lockdown.”
