Teaching kids about nutrition and healthy eating is all about making gradual changes. Once you start to help them make healthier food choices, their chances of building a healthy relationship with food increases.

Today, every where we look; we hear and read information about the importance of eating the right foods and exercising. They are vast amounts of information available that cover this subject. But the key component that is missing is teaching the steps needed to make these lifestyle changes.

The problem is that we have a hard time staying motivated. Today our lifestyles are busier than ever before. How do we become good role models for our kids if we do not take the same steps towards eating healthier foods?

It really isn't as hard as you may think. Making small gradual changes everyday will soon become a normal part of your day. Let's take a look at some of things we can do gradually. Here are some basic steps that your family can follow which will help influence your child's food choices;

We can begin by planning healthier meals. Did you know that people who make an extensive grocery list before heading to the store are less likely to buy impulse food items?

Avoid the urge for a second serving by making less food.

Create desserts that are fun, tasty, and lower in calories. This doesn't mean you cannot enjoy a nice slice of pie or cake. Just avoid doing it every meal.

Keep fresh fruit foods handy and visible. Place a colorful bowl of assorted fruits on your kitchen counter.

Plan to have one family night at the dinner table. Research shows that kids that eat at the table with their parents are more likely to choose healthier foods.

Let's not forget about some of the things we can do to increase our physical activities. Riding a bike, taking the stairs instead of the elevator and walking every chance we get.

The most important thing to remember is that we need to start off small then slowly work towards our goals. We should never beat ourselves up if we happen to "fall off wagon". Each time me make a small change, the next one will get easier. Before we know it we have lost all those habits we developed.