Navigating mealtime chaos with kids can be a Herculean task, I get it. Not only is the evening hour frequently the time of day where melt-downs begin, people get hungry and the shuffle of the day starts to come to a head. But, don't worry. I've got you covered.

As a board-certified pediatrician and mom of two, I've curated five strategies that have transformed my own family's dining experience. Get ready to simplify and savor those precious moments around the table with these 5 easy steps. 

1. Embrace the Power of Routine:

Establishing a mealtime routine is a game-changer. Ditch the screens, encourage lots of conversation with open-ended questions, and practice active listening. Creating a predictable atmosphere not only fosters family bonding but also sets the stage for positive eating habits. When you sit down, make sure you engage your kids in the conversation! It will help keep them focused on their food and the connection you create with them. If you need a little inspiration, grab my Conversation Starter Guide here.

2. Dinner Served, Job Done:

Once that plate hits the table, consider your job DONE. Empower your little ones to choose what, when, and how much they eat. This autonomy not only encourages independence but also minimizes mealtime battles. Remember, kids are more likely to explore new foods when they feel in control. 

3. Plan Ahead for Easy Wins:

The key to stress-free mealtimes is planning. Invest time in meal prep with easy recipes or make friends with your pressure cooker for quick, nutritious meals. Having a handful of go-to options can save you from the last-minute dinner scramble. If you need help getting started, join me for a FREE 21 Day Plant-Based Challenge here! Everything is easy, yummy and ready to go in 30 minutes or less. I even give you your shopping lists each week so you don't have to think about it.

4. Start with Stuff they Already Like:

Recipe ideas don't have to be a source of stress. Start by making a list of all the whole foods that your kids already eat on a regular basis. Once you've got this, you can make a list of meal ideas. Need some examples? How about Sweet potato Tacos, Broccoli Pizza, or Butternut Squash Mac and Cheeze?

5. Build the Perfect Kid's Plate:

Ensure a well-balanced meal by adopting the "1 Fresh, 1 Familiar, 1 Family Meal" approach. Include a fresh element, something familiar your child loves, and a portion of the family meal. This not only caters to varied tastes but also encourages a diverse and nutritious diet. Again, lean into those familiar foods! And remember, the goal is to only make ONE main dish for the entire family to share. Don't become a short order cook! For more on this, check out my Free Plant-Based Starter Kit here.

Conclusion:

Mealtime shouldn't be a battleground; it should be a time of connection and nourishment. With these five strategies, you can transform your family's dining experience into a more enjoyable and stress-free affair. Simplify, strategize, and savor those moments around the table with your little ones. Happy dining! 

If you’re serious about starting a plant based diet for your family, you should download my insanely useful Plant Based Starter Kit.

For 1-on-1 help with lifestyle change, click here