Let’s face it, parents today have to perform a juggling act. Between getting the kids to school and activities, to your own busy work schedule, finding time to prepare and cook healthy meals for the family can be hard to do. But not impossible, however.
Here are seven tips to help you balance your busy schedule while still providing tasty and healthy meals for your family all week long.
1. PREPARE IN ADVANCE
Putting an entire meal together for the family after rushing home from a busy workday is anything but simple. But you can make it easier on yourself by preparing several meals in advance on the weekend, or whenever you have some spare time. Use plastic containers that can either be refrigerated or frozen and have them ready to be used during the week.
2. USE A SLOW COOKER
The beauty of a slow cooker is that it does all the work while you and your family are out of the house. Just prep your ingredients in the morning and add them to the slow cooker before heading out for the day. Moreover, you can use the main ingredient, such as chicken, as part of healthy meals throughout the week.
3. COOK IN BULK
Make enough for two meals instead of one. You can use the leftovers for lunches the next day, or re-heat it for another dinner late in the week.
4. INVOLVE THE FAMILY
This tip works especially well if you have older children; let them be responsible for one meal per week and have them plan it before you do your regular grocery shopping. They can also help make lunches on a daily basis.
5. KEEP THE PANTRY STOCKED
Make sure that your pantry is always stocked with healthy staples such as beans, spices, brown rice and other necessary items. Do the same with your freezer – make sure it’s stocked with frozen fruits and vegetables, protein foods, and other healthy pre-cooked items.
6. KEEP MEALS SIMPLE
You don’t need to prepare an elaborate meal to make it healthy and effective for your family. Balance your meal with simple side vegetable side dishes, or fruit and yogurt for dessert.
7. KEEP HEALTHY SNACKS ON HAND
Having healthy snacks on hand, either for trips or after-school munching, will help eliminate the temptation for drive-thru fast food. Make sure the fruits and veggies are pre-washed, cut up, and portioned in baggies so they can easily be grabbed on the go.
No matter what your fitness and wellness interests and goals are, the Amarillo Town Club can help you get there. Our family-friendly facility offers state-of-the-art fitness equipment, group classes, a premier Aquatics Center, and more. Sign your family up for a membership today!
