Family dinner planning Do’s and Don’ts

 

 

I find it ironic that in this week when I’m talking about the do’s and don’ts of planning family dinner, I picked up my third (yes, third) grocery order today. Yes, that’s one a day so far and no, I’m not proud. The problem? After getting back to town from the Thanksgiving holiday, I hadn’t taken the proper time to plan our dinners. I just hadn’t made the time – until last night. So, my order today was large and well planned. I’m happy to report that I shouldn’t be picking up groceries anymore this week. And you’re welcome for giving you an example of what life is like when you don’t take the time to plan family dinner.

 

As you take the time to plan, your dinner routine won’t be flawless but it will be better. You always have to leave room for change and flexibility because we’re dealing with the biggest variables on the planet – humans, which let me remind you, is a good thing. 🙂

 

what are the do’s and don’ts of planning family dinner?

• DO sit down once a week and plan what meals you’ll have for the next 5-7 days.

DON’T think dinner will magically just happen without any planning or preparation.

 

• DO check to see if you made all the recipes from your last planning session and if not, include those for this week.

DON’T allow food and ingredients to go to waste just because things didn’t work out as planned.

 

• DO write down what recipes you’ll be making and, if needed, where those recipes are located.

DON’T assume you’ll remember everything you planned.

 

• DO walk around your kitchen while you’re planning to see what food you already have in the cupboards and what needs to be used in your fridge and freezer. Write down what you need on a list or add to your grocery app right then.

DON’T try to guess on the fly what you may have in your fridge or pantry.

 

• DO plan with your calendar open so you can plan meals that will fit into your life and your family’s life for the upcoming week.

DON’T disregard the realities of family needs, schedules and dinner preparation time.

 

• DO order your groceries during your planning session so you can turn those well-planned meals into actual family dinners.

DON’T put it off for later or plan to head to the store later without a grocery list.

 

• DO keep trying, it’ll never be perfect but should get better.

DON’T give up on family dinners, it’s one of the best things you can do for your family.

 

 

Not sure what meals to plan? Check out some of our family’s favorites in my Recipe Box.