Mealtimes are the perfect opportunity to connect with your child and teach healthy eating habits. Here are some tips for making dinner time the best it can be:

• Remove distractions and talk to each other-Turn off the TV and cell phones so that your attention is on each other. Talk about your day in fun ways, such as "Rose, Thorn, and Bud."
• Offer your child variety-Don't give up if your child doesn't like the taste of a specific food. You'll be surprised how often kids will end up liking food they try prepared in different ways.
• Let your child help out in the kitchen-Younger kids may like to help set the table with napkins and silverware, while older kids might want to help prepare foods. Getting involved will help build a healthy, positive relationship with cooking and food.
• Mix things up-Try make-your-own dishes, such as tacos or personal pizzas, or take dinner to a local park for a picnic.

Find family-friendly recipe ideas here: www.choosemyplate.gov/myplatekitchen