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Meals made easy

by Tamara McKee

Parents make their own choices for their kids when it comes to nutrition but here are some new options, exclusive to Sobey's, IGA and Pricechopper stores, which are sure to put a smile on their faces.
These days many kids' foods are laced with high glucose fructose (corn syrup). High sugar and high sodium are linked to many childhood diseases.

These are three favourites:

1. Breekie Bites - Whole wheat, cinnamon mini waffles
2. Alpha Bites - Alphabet mashed potato letters
3. Fruit Pic Mix - Dried fruit mix in raisin, berry, apple

It's nice to read the ingredient list and not see any artificial flavours, chemicals or preservatives.

Disney and Sobey's have combined forces to make meals easier and healthier for kids. The new Compliments Junior line includes more than 100 new products, of which 75 per cent bear the Health Check symbol. As with anything, check the ingredients.

posted 10.12.07

Instilling generosity in your child over the holidays

With so many presents, the holidays can turn the focus for some children into "getting" instead of "giving". Christian Children's Fund of Canada, an organization that helps children in need around the world, has some helpful hints to use during the gift-giving season as a way to instill generosity in your child:
Teach them to count their blessings. Remember those less fortunate at home and around the world. Children can identify with a child their own age in living in another country. The idea that some children don't have any toys on Christmas is a big shock for many children.

Needs vs. Wants. Help children think about those who are truly needy of gifts. Have them consider the basic items they really need everyday. Ask them what they need this Christmas not just what they want.
Develop a new giftless or gift reduced tradition. Create a new family tradition where instead of yet another gift, a gift to a child in need is made in the name of your son or daughter. Children are often excited to know that they gave a piglet or baby goat to a child their age in a poor country.
Involve them in the donation choice . Going online to www.ccfcanada.ca is a way to make donating to a charity fun. Instead of another box of chocolates, have kids select a gift for their teacher like sending school supplies in their teacher's name to a school in Sri Lanka.
Have them make a donation in your name. Suggesting children set aside money throughout the year or use the money they would spend on another tie for their Dad to purchase a duckling for a child living in poverty is a great way for parents to lead by example.
For more ways to help you involve your children in giving generously, visit www.ccfcanada.ca or call 1-800-263-5437.

posted 10.12.07