You and your children can eat healthier by making little changes in daily routines.

The CDC states that the home environment and parental influence are strongly correlated with youth eating behaviors. HelpGuide.org goes further to say that “Healthy eating can stabilize children’s energy, sharpen their minds, and even out their moods.”

Kids learn eating habits at a very young age and parents have significant influence over how much or how well kids eat. Follow these valuable tips from the USDA ChooseMyPlate.gov website and you’ll teach kids healthy eating from the start.

Balancing Calories

• Enjoy your food, but eat less (manage serving size and exercise portion control).
• Avoid oversized portions.

Foods to Increase

• Make half your plate fruits and vegetables.
• Make at least half your grains whole grains.
• Switch to fat-free or low-fat (1%) milk.

Foods to Reduce

• Compare sodium in foods like soup, bread, and frozen meals and choose the foods with lower numbers.
• Drink water instead of sugary drinks.

Eat healthy today and live a longer, healthier, and happier life.