Page 36 - Robeson Living Winter 2020

Family Health Goals

By Joanna Rogers, Youth EFNEP Assistant

With the new year in full swing many of us have already start- When making out your menu, make trying a new vegetable
ed thinking about our personal New Years’ goals, but have you once a month a goal to try.
thought about making it a family affair? Setting goals as a fam-
ily has many great benefits and advantages. Goals can range Physical activity can sometimes be a drain for some of us, but
from small-term to long term. To start off, think about the goals find what works for you. It is recommended that we do at least
that you would like your family to achieve in the new year and 60 minutes of physical activity a day. Make a family workout
how your family can benefit from them. In the Expanded Food chart, and after a set number of days working out, reward your-
and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) we teach youth and selves. Don’t overwork your body; know your limits. For those
adults the importance of eating healthy and physical activity. of us who don’t work out, maybe start by walking 15 minutes
a day and stretching. As time progresses try new activities at
When making out your new year goals, think about what works local centers or join a gym. Start a walking club with friends or
best for your family. Start off with small goals that will lead co-workers. If you have small children, try and find activities
to big goals. Have everyone write down what they would like they can participate in also. Use commercial breaks as a chance
to achieve or try when it comes to eating healthy or new exer- to get up and move. While doing physical activities remember
cises. Having everyone’s input makes it more fun, and every- to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water, and stay away from
one has a hand in accomplishing each goal. After each goal sugary drinks.
is achieved make it a celebration; no small accomplishment
should go uncelebrated. No step is too small when it comes to making healthy changes.
Small steps lead to big changes. Remember to have fun and
Making smart food choices is a great way to start your new focus on the goals you have in mind. Below is a healthy recipe
year. In EFNEP we talk to our participants about meal plan- to get your family started:
ning, food preparation, and the importance of label reading.
Try making a family cookbook or recipe box, also including Easy Chicken Pot Pie
new recipes that you may want to give a try. Take a trip to Makes 6 servings (Serving Size: ½ Cup)
your local produce stands to see what local farmers have in
season; each season can bring fresh, new ideas to the table. Ingredients

Page 36 Robeson Living ~ Winter 2020