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GET YOUR KIDS

to Eat Healthier Than Ever

Do your kids get enough nutrients in their diet? If they’re like most kids, the answer is probably no. You want your children to eat more vegetables and less processed junk, but that’s easier said than done. Getting the average kid to chow down on a serving of broccoli is a chore.

strips and layer them as you would typical pasta. The same can be done for other pasta dishes. Zucchini noodles made with a spiralizer — also known as “zoodles” — make a mean substitute for spaghetti. Pair them with your favorite marinara sauce or toss them in a slightly less decadent, but still delicious, alfredo. Vegetables can also be incorporated into other foods your children already know and love. Did you know you can make brownies with avocado and black beans? Slipping in a few healthier ingredients here and there can deliver the nutrients your kids need to power through a busy school week. If you want to foster long-lasting healthy eating habits, the best thing you can do is offer your child some agency. For example, saying to your child, “You can have the cauliflower or the broccoli. It’s up to you!” empowers them to make their own decision based on their preferences. Psychologists and social scientists, including the famed Dr. Maria Montessori, argue that when kids feel in charge of a decision, they are more likely to embrace the ability to choose, even if it’s between two kinds of vegetables. Ultimately, as a parent, you are in control of your child’s diet. Help them explore new foods and foster a positive culinary environment. Your kids will develop a taste for healthy eating in no time!

Food manufacturers have built an entire industry around our kids’ penchant for sugary cereal and fast food. However, a diet of processed foods can lead to a host of problems, including hindered brain development and even behavioral issues. A study in the American Journal of Public Health found links between poor diet and the development of depression in kids and teens. So, how can you encourage your kids to eat healthier foods? One way is through presentation. A mound of plain old veggies is unappealing, whether you’re 10 years old or 40. The solution is to think of vegetables as an ingredient rather than as a stand-alone dish. Take lasagna, for instance. You can easily modify this beloved Italian dish. Instead of using lasagna noodles, slice zucchini into thin, noodle-like FINDING PEACE OF MIND for Your Family’s Financial Future If you could design your ideal life, what would it look like? Where would you live? What usually comes to mind are the features right in front of you. You might imagine the interior design of your home, which you’ve curated through a Pinterest board, or the neighborhood you live in — aspects of your life that you see every day. What you might not immediately think of is designing your financial future, but it’s an important part of making your dream life a reality. It might sound strange to think about it that way, but you’re probably in the best position right now to prioritize your desires for your future. Has your situation recently changed? You might want to update the beneficiary for your will. If you’re going through a divorce, your spouse will remain the beneficiary on your policies unless you make a change. If you have kids, you may want to think about kids protection planning. Putting measures into place now will ensure peace of mind later. HOW IT WORKS We’ll schedule a two-hour family wealth planning session so I can get to know your goals and concerns. Before our meeting, I’ll ask you to do a little homework so we can maximize the time we have together. Both spouses should be present at the session if you are married.

Financial planning can be daunting, especially during divorce. That’s why we’re here. We can help you and your spouse effectively plan for your financial futures while preserving the assets you have. If you or a loved one are in need of estate planning, we are here to help. As an attorney with an LL.M. in estate planning, I have experience with wills, kids protection planning, living wills, health care proxy, and trusts. You can reach me at 508-795-1557 or info@mediationadvantage.com.

Don’t wait for your estate to end up in probate or for a life-changing event to make you realize that you don’t have a plan in place for your family.

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