Home Sweet Home

Rethink Rewards

Since we were very small we learned that we could be rewarded with food. Why not try rewarding your child with things like extra play time, read a book together, go to a movie, extra privileges or why not begin a start chart and earn reward stars towards getting something your child has been wanting.

Ditch the Sugar

It’s time to make water your household drink and say goodbye to sweet drinks like fizzy, sports drinks and fruit drinks. This one can be a tough habit to break but just think about how much healthier you will all feel and how much money you will save!

Sit down together

When was the last time your family sat down and ate together at the table? Sitting down to enjoy a meal and removing distractions helps create healthy eating habits. It doesn’t have to be everyday to begin with - start with one meal a week. It doesn’t have to be dinner, maybe a weekend lunch at home would be easier.

Keep it handy

If children always see healthy foods in the kitchen, it becomes an option they’ll be more likely to choose. Have fresh fruit and vegetables in plain sight and easy to reach. Put a fruit bowl on the counter, and place your fruit and veg in the front of the fridge so they’re the first thing they see.

Toss the Junk Food

Do a pantry, cupboard and fridge raid to get rid of any junk food. While the occasional snack food is okay, it is best to keep them out of the house to reduce the battles and temptations for unhealthy choices. If it’s there, your child will probably want it. Make your life easier, and keep junk food out of the house as much as possible.

Make a Plan

A little time planning your weekly meals and snacks can save a lot of time, stress and unhealthy choices during the week. Make a list of everything you need for your weekly meals and make the 5 o’clock panic a thing of the past! Click here for more planning advice