With the holidays approaching and families constantly on the move, having a dinner menu plan can help your family to eat healthier, skip fast food, and save time and money. Sit down with your family at the beginning of the week and plan out your week together. Don’t forget to account for any activities you have after school and/or work. Use these charts to help set your plan in motion!
Tips for planning:
- Try to let family members pick one night of dinner each week
- Make sure each meal contains vegetables or fruit, protein and a grain/starch
Here are some examples:
• Baked chicken, collard greens, and mashed potatoes
• Pulled pork sandwiches (on rolls) and broccoli
• Spaghetti, meatballs and salad - Try to choose no more than 1 day a week for restaurants, take out or fast food
- Make a grocery list and shop before the week starts to have ingredients ready
- Some nights can be planned leftovers or quick meals. Try to pick nights that are usually busy like weekends or work nights etc.
If you have any questions about healthy meal planning for your family, RAHS’ registered dietitians are available at RAHS clinics for family appointments.
Regional Alliance for Healthy Schools (RAHS) 