Family Healthy Eating Habits

Sitting down together for a meal whenever you can is a great way to connect with your family and help your children develop healthy eating habits and learn to choose healthy foods. Remember, keeping it relaxed is key to making sure everyone gets the most out of this time together.

Here are some quick tips for making meals more relaxed:

Remove distractions. Turn off the television, put away phones, tablets and other electronic devices.
Talk to each other. Focus conversation on what family members did during the day.
Set a healthy table and let everyone, including the kids, make choices about what they want.
Let everyone help. Kids learn by doing.
Make-your-own dishes—get everyone involved in meal time.
On nice days, opt for a change of scenery, i.e. sit outdoors or go to a nearby park for a dinner picnic.

To help you achieve your healthy eating nutrition goals, try using the tips below, from choosemyplate.gov—“MyPlate is a reminder to find your healthy eating style and build it throughout your lifetime. Everything you eat and drink matters. The right mix can help you be healthier now and in the future.”

Start with small changes

Instead of a diet overhaul, make small changes to what you eat and drink that will work for you now and in the future.

Take one day at a time

Sometimes things don’t go as planned, even with the best of intentions. If you miss one day or one milestone for your goal, don’t give up!

Be active your way

Pick activities you enjoy! If you focus on having fun or learning a new skill that interests you, you will be more likely to stick with it.

Team up

Find a friend with similar goals and be active together. Staying on track is easier with support.

Celebrate successes

Think of each change as a “win” as you build positive habits and find ways to reach your goals. Reward yourself—you’ve earned it!

For more information and to get a customized daily calorie plan, click here – choosemyplate.gov