It usually goes something like this....I make the dinner and prepare 4 plates of food (knowing exactly how each person likes theirs). For example, my daughter doesn't like the different foods touching each other, my son needs his meat cut bite size or a 6 oz piece of chicken will be a bite size for him, and during the week my husband usually gets home after we've eaten, so his plate is in the microwave.
My kids are 10 and 12, so you're probably thinking to yourself, "Shouldn't they be helping themselves?" Yes, they should be. Sometimes it's just easier to get it all on the table myself, but tonight we tried something new....buffet style. Granted, we were only having tacos, but it worked well and they seemed to like being empowered to get their own plates....they just needed a little reminding to try everything!
I even planned ahead and served portions in dishes that can be used for frig storage after dinner. Whatever was left on the stove would be added to these dishes and go straight to the frig for leftovers.
As a parent, I know I have to teach my kids independence....some days it's just easier to take charge (especially those days with softball practice and tennis lessons that hit between 4:30 and 6:00).
Wish me luck in this new independent adventure and let me know if you have any great tips you can share.
