As the snowy, cold days drag on, there’s a good chance everyone is feeling a little cooped up and more than ready to embrace a change of pace. What to do, however, when it’s still only 20 degrees outside and both you and your kids are probably bored and snacking a little too much? Now is actually a perfect time to help kids learn about nutrition labels. Here are some tips from the Food and Drug Administration:
Kids Can...
• Guess the Serving Size
When your kids are choosing snacks, challenge them to measure out what they think is one serving. Then have them measure out the serving size according to the Nutrition Facts label. Discuss any difference in amounts so they can see how many servings they’re actually eating or drinking. Remind them that if they are eating two servings, they are getting double the calories and nutrients!
• Prepare Individual Servings of Snacks
Have your child check the Nutrition Facts label on their favorite snacks and measure out single servings according to the serving size listed on the label. Keep individual servings in resealable plastic bags or containers so you can quickly grab-and-go.
• Read the Label with Friends
When your child has friends over, challenge them to read the label when they are choosing snacks. Encourage them to see who can find the most interesting fact on a Nutrition Facts label and have them try to stump the others. Ask them to guess things like: How big is one serving of the snack? How many servings are in the package? Which snacks are higher or lower in calories or a particular nutrient?
You Can...
• Compliment Label Reading
If you see your children reading a label, make sure to compliment them and encourage this action. Let them know they are taking important steps towards managing their own health and nutrition.
• Make the Shopping List Together
Have your child read the label on food and beverage packages in the pantry and refrigerator. Remind your child to pay particular attention to those foods that are higher in nutrients to get more of and lower in nutrients to get less of. Then, invite your child to add “restocking” items to the family shopping list using this new knowledge as a guide.
• Read Labels While Unpacking Groceries
You and your kids can check out labels while putting away your purchases. Have your child choose which food he or she thinks was a smart purchase that day and use the nutrition facts label on the food package to explain why.