Top Picks for Kids

How many servings of fruits and vegetables should my child be eating....and what is a "serving?"
"School-aged children should consume a minimum of five servings of fruits or vegetables per day, and for many parents, that seems like an impossibility, especially as french fries and ketchup do not count."  Read More




How many calories should your child consume daily?
"2,000 is a magic number in the food world, as it is the number of calories upon which food labels base their calculations, but in reality, that number varies greatly based upon age, gender, and activity level, along with other contributing factors, and, unfortunately, 2,000 calories may be more than many should be consuming, especially children*."  Read More

Healthy, delicious alternatives to the PB&J sandwich.
"Nothing beats a PB&J, but in "peanut free" lunch zones, parents have to forego the PB for the safety of other children.  Not a reason to take up arms or an invitation for a jelly sandwich, this is a call to discover a filling and healthy sandwich that is still quick and easy to prepare."  Read More







Crash Course in Calcium: how much, great sources, and how to help the body absorb it.
The old ad for milk was not wrong; it really does do a body good, as it is loaded with calcium.  In young people, calcium aids in the development of strong bones, which will continue to strengthen throughout adolescence until they begin to decline in young adulthood.  Read More




Hassle-free ways to dress kids to stay outdoors and active during winter months.
Kids would play outside in their summer best on mid-winter days if given the choice.  And while they are actually more prone to heat loss than their bundled up parents, their desire to expend energy regardless of the temperature may actually work to keep them healthier through the winter, as regular activity boosts the immune system.  Read More

 

Healthy and simple goals for a new school year.  

"We all love beginnings and parents need a clean slate more than anyone, but perhaps when looking for the opportunity to start afresh with our families, we should follow our children's calendar.  So, this year, as the mornings get chillier and nights fill with homework, think about establishing a new schedule and menu that make this school year the healthiest yet."  Read More