Eat Healthy

Here are a few ideas to try:

1. Provide a supportive eating environment, and when possible, eat meals as a family.
2. Keep your kitchen pantry and refrigerator stocked with healthy snack choices for your children. When food shopping consider buying grab and go healthy snacks for after school and “on the go” times of the week.
3. Model healthy eating for your children. Consider the fact that your children eat what you have taught them is acceptable to eat.
4. Try new foods and encourage your children to do the same.
5. Plan your meals and snacks ahead of schedule! By writing down a grocery list and food shopping based on that grocery list, you will more than likely stick to those healthier meals and snacks.
6. Allow your child to assist with meal and snack preparation. A child is more likely to try a new food if they have helped to prepare it. Children who are exposed to many different foods are more likely to find healthier choices that they like. This is also a great opportunity for family time.
7. Clean your plate policies only enforce eating when you are full!
8. Encourage moderation, variety, and balance of foods. Do not label foods as “bad” foods, rather, “foods to eat once in awhile.”
9. Do not use food as a reward or punishment.
10. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water! Water is often forgotten as part of a healthy daily routine.