Summer is almost over, and that means the kids are back to school and meal planning for your family needs to be prepared in advance. With less free time during the day and shuttling the kids to activities before, during and after school, planning for breakfast, snacks, lunch and dinner becomes more of a challenge

For most parents, providing healthy options and wholesome meals for your family is essential. Sure, packing unhealthy pre-made snacks and lunch is easy, but is it really for the best interest of your child? Meal planning does not have to be a struggle, and with a bit of effort, parents can send the kids off to school with healthy alternatives and have a fresh and delicious meal ready at home for dinner.

Ways to Pack the Best

First, invest in Tupperware and baggies. While there are some options when it comes to premade healthy snacks from the grocery store, they tend to be expensive for what you are getting and just as easy to make at home. Having a variety of storage containers at your fingertips allows parents to create healthy alternatives for a fraction of the cost.

Create a Shopping List

Planning in advance for each week allows you to focus when shopping and only get what is needed at the store. Use online resources and magazines to plan out your meals and create a shopping list for what ingredients are needed. Make sure to also pick up an assortment of healthy snack items including fruits, vegetables, nuts and yogurt.

Choosing Meals

When it comes to dinners, select lean items at the store that are quick and easy to prepare. Chicken is always great to have in the fridge along with fish, and a few non-meat alternatives and a large assortment of fruit, greens and vegetables. There is a large assortment of online resources and professionals who can assist when seeking to find healthy and fast dinners. Again, preparation and advance planning is the key to your families’ success in delicious and healthy meal options.

For more information on healthy meal planning for your family, contact our doctors today for professional advice and options that work for your schedule.