Let's Celebrate "Dining In" for Healthy Families Day!

This week we are celebrating the First Annual Family and Consumer Sciences Day on December 3rd.  The theme this year is "Dining In" for Healthy Families.  We are encouraging every family to join in and plan a healthy meal to prepare and eat together.

Did you know that....

• Toddlers that eat the same foods at meal time as their parents are healthier.
• Children that eat dinner with their family have improved reading skills.
• Teens that have family meals are less likely to smoke or drink alcohol.
• Family meals give you time to talk about your day.

Here are some ideas on how your family can enjoy a healthy meal together this week.

• Choose a new recipe to try with your family.  Our Eat Smart Website has many recipes that your family will love to try.  Let your child help you prepare it!
• Double your recipes and freeze the extra food.  This will allow you to just thaw and heat a meal for a later time.
• Keep it simple.  Dinners do not have to take a lot of time and work.  Have foods on hand like canned tuna or chicken, whole grain pasta and frozen veggies for a quick meal.
• Use a slow cooker.  A slow cooker is a great way to let food items during the day and have little preparation to do when you get home for a healthy meal.
• Dining with your family can be any meal -- breakfast, lunch, dinner or snacks.  Try to have regular family meals two to three times per week.

We want to hear from you!  What is your favorite healthy dinner that you have as a family?