These tips come from a WIC parent. Feel free to to share your story in the comments! Your words may be featured in the future.
“As a mother of four, I am always looking for ways to maximize my time because I never seem to have enough of it. My best friend often reminds me ‘structure equals freedom.’ She helps me see that the more organized I am, the fewer last-minute decisions and less stress I have. Solid structures make for easier living. For example, good organization helps me quickly find jackets and shoes, a screwdriver, and my work clothes. Structure also helps me easily pack nutritious lunches for the entire family."
Helpful structures for meal planning
"These simple, basic structures help my family meal plan quickly and easily!"
"In our house, that means Sunday mornings, at the kitchen table, right after breakfast when we’re all well-rested and well-fed!"
"Before we begin planning, we always gather the sales ads for our local stores and our coupons."
"The first step for us is to have the kids do their parts. Then we send them off to play while we complete the plan."
"Crockpot, One Ingredient 3 Ways, 15-Minute, No Cook, Pantry Clean Out, and Kids’ Favorites are some of our favorite go-to themes."
"By using the same steps in the same order from week to week, we move through the whole process smoothly. Our order of steps is: Inventory, Sales Ads, Kids’ Input, Finish Menu, Create the grocery list."
"I have three templates I always use: a food inventory, a weekly menu chart, and a grocery list. I also keep the list of my family’s favorite foods and meals and our favorite recipes close!"
"Now that our meal planning is well-practiced, we move through the process quickly and easily. The best part is, with our family-centered plan, the entire week goes more smoothly. Taking the time to create and learn a good structure sure has proven worthwhile for our busy family of six!" ~ Arianna, mother of 4