Meal Planning Ideas for the Busy Mom

Raising a family comes with an abundance of jobs and responsibilities. One thing that’s guaranteed is that this family of yours will want to eat … often! We all know how stressful it can be when 5:00 p.m. rolls around and we don’t know what’s for dinner. Don’t worry, Mama, here are a few meal planning ideas you can take to stop dreading meal time.

Make a plan:

Dinners do not need to be extravagant. Even if you are having hot dogs for dinner, having a plan is key. Every Sunday, take 15 minutes to look at your week and come up with a menu. Use a whiteboard, chalkboard or whatever works for you. Just write it down! Check out our top picks below for endless ideas. Rule: If you don’t make a meal schedule for the week, at least have a plan each day by 10 a.m.

Sunday: Breakfast for dinner
Monday: Pasta, salad and garlic bread
Tuesday: Taco Tuesday
Wednesday: Leftovers
Thursday: Chicken, rice and broccoli
Friday: Pizza and salad
Saturday: Takeout

Make a list:

Make a list and check it twice. No, we aren’t talking about a Christmas list, we are talking about a grocery list. Statistics show that if you go to the store hungry and without a list, you are going to buy more than you need and forget things that are essential. Look at your meal plan then skim your fridge and cupboards and jot down what you need. This doesn’t take long, and it will save you time and money at the store.

Remember the why:

Research proves that consistently gathering for meals around the table provides your family with many physical, mental and emotional advantages. We know life can get crazy, and working parents may have difficult schedules. Get creative. If you can’t do dinner, come together for family breakfasts instead. The benefits are worth it!

Mama, you got this! We have to pick our battles. Don’t let dinner be one of them!

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