by Kellie Davis

Kids go through phases of eating, making it difficult to establish healthy eating patterns. One month, they seem to eat everything you place in front of them, while the next month all they want is chicken tenders and grapes.

Of course, picky eating is a control mechanism for kids, providing them the ability to express their desire to have what they want. But, fluctuation in eating patterns might really occur because of changes in your lifestyle that you have yet to recognize.

How busy are you?

Life gets hectic. The older your children are, the more activities you seem to be involved in. Busy schedules often translate to fast methods of feeding. Peanut butter sandwiches in the car between soccer and ballet might become a norm in your household — worse yet, hitting the drive-thru on the way to your next baseball game.

If you are always in a rush to get from point A to Z, then your family’s diet suffers. Have no fear, below are some tips to help you keep your kids eating healthy, and halt the threat of World War III at the dinner table.

Family dinners:

You may not be able to throw together a 5-course dinner every single night, but sitting down with the family is a vital component to healthy eating. It teaches your children that eating is important, and they should take time out of their day to do so. It also allows you that much needed, and often neglected, family time.

Quick tip: if you are running around from activity to activity, then pack a picnic. Arrive to the activity 15 minutes early and set out a blanket and your basket. If your child needs to run off to his game or event, then at least he will have his dinner waiting when he gets back.

Cook at home:

Does the pizza delivery know you by first, where you were born, and that you hate black olives? If so, then dust off your stove and get out those pots and pans. Even if you detest the thought of cooking, you can throw together simple meals that your family will love.

Quick tip: Check out the recipes on Olicious Life to get ideas for quick and easy healthy meals and desserts.

Get your family involved:

Though they fight it, kids actually thrive on responsibility. Instead of kicking them out of the kitchen when you make dinner, had them a list of tasks. Kids love to wash and prepare veggies, set the table, and even help clean up.

Quick tip: Kids are more inclined to eat something if they pick it out and prepare it. Take your kids to the grocer and let them help you decide what’s for dinner.

Make a menu:

After a long day at work, the last thing you want to do when you get home is to think. If you make a weekly, or even monthly menu to follow, then all of your thinking is done for you. Menus also save you money at the grocer because you are less likely to overspend when you shop.

Quick tip: Have at least two nights a week set aside for leftovers. It may work best to cook your largest meals on the weekends, so those on busy weeknights, you can effortlessly throw together something good. Leftovers also make great picnic foods.