Snack-time service with a smile

Seems like every day snack-time begins with a series of frustrating compromises in my family. "No, you can't have yogurt, string cheese and a popsicle." "Yes, you can have yogurt, string cheese and a tangerine." It's one of the most dreaded parts of my day. I'm left feeling more like the Snack Nazi and less like a responsible mom developing life-long healthful eaters in my kids.

That's what I love about this DIY for setting up a self-service snack station in your refrigerator posted by Valerie on Frugal Family Fun Blog. Using a simple Lazy-Susan, this no-brainer idea packs a powerful punch. For one, it encourages independence. Isn't it our goal as parents to raise our kids to be self-reliant adults? And because it's a controlled choice they're making you're also assured their getting a healthy snack each time. Plus, I don't know about you, but I've noticed my children tend to be motivated to eat healthier and take more risks with new foods when they are given the chance to assemble their own meal. Last, but not least, it eliminates the need for negotiation. "This is your snack station. Choose what you like, eat what you choose!"

Valerie also shares helpful hints for turning a picky eater into an adventurous muncher. Have fun with food and teach those kids that veggies and fruits aren't that scary after all.