New Year's Resolution: Make it a Family Event!

It's that time of year when we are all looking back at the choices we have made and thinking about the things that we want to change for the new year.  These are New Year's Resolutions, of course!  Here's a thought: whether it's to exercise more, eat more fruits and vegetables, or get more sleep, you can get the whole family involved.  Making a resolution for just yourself may seem hard.  If you make it a family effort that includes your children, it can be easier.  Pick one thing that you would like to change for the whole family and figure out ways that you can add it into your daily life.  For example, rather than saying "I want my kids to eat more fruits and vegetables" ask yourself, "How can I get my kids to eat more fruits and vegetables?" Maybe you can pre-package fruits and veggies at the beginning of the week in small plastic bags to add to their lunch.  Maybe it is as easy as adding canned green beans or peas to your next pasta dinner.  Find out what works best for you and your family.

Now think of the New Year's resolutions that you've made in the past. Does it seem like you have so many things on your list to change and find it overwhelming?  Remember to pick just one goal and take small steps. Here are a few goals that you can set for the family in the upcoming year:

1. Switch to low-fat (1%) or non-fat dairy products.
2. Start packing fruits and veggies for your lunch each day.
3. Go to the park or on a walk at least three times a week.

The most important thing to remember is that if you don't make your goal one day, tomorrow is a new day to start fresh!  Just start over and keep working towards your goal with your family.  Once you have reached one goal, then try adding another one.

We might call it a "New Year's Resolution", but this can be a year-long resolution if you try!