The Supernanny Serves Up Tips For Families (NAPSA)—Although she knows how hard it can be to gather everyone together, TV’s “Supernanny,” Jo Frost, believes in the benefits of the family dinner. “T understand how difficult it can be for busy parents to keep their families on track,” said Frost. “But with a few simple and easyto-follow tips, families can achieve happy, well-balancedlives.” Eating together can be a great way for parents to encourage healthier eating habits and to foster parent-child communication. According to a recent survey conducted by Impulse Research Corporation, more than half (51 percent) of parents say they sometimes struggle with getting kids to eat well and more than 80 percent say their kids are at least sometimes picky eaters. A frequent challenge is getting kids to eat much-needed vegetables. With all the news about the new USDA Food Pyramid, the survey found that almost six out of 10 parents (55.6 percent) say they don’t know how manyservings of vegetables per day the guidelines recommend kidseat. Oneof Frost’s tips is to use kidpleasing pasta sauce. For example, Ragu Pasta Sauce offers more than a full serving of vegetables in every one-half cup serving of sauce, is 100 percent natural and a source of lycopene and vitamin A. Since 86 percent of parents surveyed say that pasta with tomato sauceis oneoftheir child’s favorite meals, pasta sauce is a good dinnertimesolution for parents. According to the survey, virtually all parents (96.9 percent) believe good eating habits are formed during childhood. “Supernanny” Jo Frost believes it’s key to engage kids in dinnertime conversation. Frost suggests involving children in the meal-planning process —this will help them feel as if they have a choice, which can lead to healthier attitudes toward food as they grow into adulthood. While hectic schedules sometimes makeit difficult for frequent family meals, Frost says it’s important for families to carve out at least one to two nights a week for a family dinner that includes all members. Serving a special meal that everyone loves, such as spaghetti and meatballs or tacos, can be a great way to foster family togetherness. It’s important to have an open dialogue with your kids, says Frost. A good way to begin is by engaging the family in dinner- time conversations that are relevant to your child’s learning and development. Encouraging each member of the family to share details about the day can bring everyone closer. For more information, visit www.ragu.com.
