I once heard some great advice for eating healthier: when you want to dive into something unhealthy like ice cream or chips, eat three healthy things first and then decide if you want the food you craved. By the time you eat one or two healthy snacks, chances are you’ve forgotten about the indulgence. I ddn't think it would work, but it did. After nuts, a bit of fruit, or a low-fat string cheese, I found myself forgetting about junk. I think this is a good practice for kids too, especially as they are home over the summer. Maybe try fruit before a popsicle, or a handful of nuts before a candy bar.
I’ve also found that making a healthier choice is easier when that better choice feels like a treat. My favorite new find is “Healthified” Fluffy Orange Fruit Dip. I even leave out the additional sugar, and I still find it sweet and delicious enough to beat out a bowl of ice cream as an evening snack. Apples, grapes and strawberries are fantastic with this dip.
This recipe is easy enough for kids to help prepare—get them involved in “healthifying” the family diet.