I really wish I could turn back the clock and start feeding my kids healthy from the beginning. However, since I can’t mess with Father Time, I’m now stuck with trying to break bad habits. And yes, some of them are pretty bad. I mean, who really needs 15-20 chocolate chips on their waffles every morning and then later for snack? (YIKES! I can’t believe I just admitted that’s what I serve my kids).

I’ve asked friends, googled some ideas and posed the question on my own Facebook page in hopes of getting ideas. I’m really happy that several of the ideas shared are ones I can actually start doing now (easy and affordable too). As I know FitCity says … all in moderation, so I’m taking the approach of small changes now for a bigger difference later.

Here are some of the ideas that I thought were worth sharing. I welcome yours too, so please comment on what you’re doing to incorporate healthy eating habits at home. Or comment on what you’ve done that you wish you hadn’t (it always makes me feel better to know I’m not alone).

1. Freeze the right foods. Rather than buy the frozen waffles from the grocery store, someone suggested making my own and freezing them. Duh! I know that’s not a new concept (making food and freezing it for meals throughout the week), but it’s one I didn’t even think about.
2. Let them pick it and make it. We’ve tried cooking together, but it wasn’t until my daughter actually got to pick the meals she wanted to make that I noticed she was eating and enjoying them more. I’m a little selective and try to give her options that I know are healthier options.
3. Reduce the sugar. FitCity had a guest blogger write about this a few weeks ago, which was great timing for me. Take a look at these tips from Audrey Barron, Living Foods Chef and Educator, shared. 
4. Replace processed foods with organic foods. I was always under the impression that the organic foods (and organic grocery stores) would be too expensive, but what I need to remember is my kids’ health is priceless. Sure, some of the foods may be a little pricier, but in-store specials and online coupon can save some dollars.
5. Remember, kids won’t starve themselves. That’s my favorite lesson learned from a good friend. She has a sign on her kitchen wall that reads “Tonight’s Menu Take it or Leave It.” Her son used to be horrible at trying new foods so she gave him 2 dice and told him to roll. Whatever came up on the dice is how many bites of things he had to eat. He quickly learned to just eat what was on his plate and not complain. It’s not easy, but stick to your guns.  

Any great tips for a mom who’s trying to help her 9- and 5-year-olds eat healthier?

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