Parents: Setting SMART Nutrition Goals for Your Kids

As we welcome 2025 at Children’s Hospital at Erlanger, we’re excited to help our young patients and their families establish healthy habits that can last a lifetime. The new year brings fresh opportunities to focus on nutrition and wellness, but we know that setting effective SMART goals is key to making lasting changes.

Making Resolutions That Stick

We’ve all experienced the enthusiasm of New Year’s resolutions, especially those centered around healthier eating and increased physical activity. However, the secret to success lies in creating SMART goals—ones that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

Let’s transform common nutrition goals into SMART objectives:

Instead of “We’ll eat healthier this year,” try:

“Our family will include at least one serving of vegetables at both lunch and dinner, starting next Monday.”

Rather than “We’ll stop getting fast food,” consider:

“We’ll limit eating out to twice per week beginning February 1st, giving us time to plan easy home-cooked meals.”

Start Small, Think Big

Success comes from taking manageable steps. We recommend focusing on just 2-3 achievable targets at a time.

For example:

1. Pack healthy lunches four days per week
2. Try one new fruit or vegetable every two weeks
3. Have family dinner together three nights per week

Staying Flexible

Life with children is dynamic – sports seasons, school projects, and busy schedules can challenge even the best-laid plans. That’s why flexibility is essential. During hectic times, adjust your goals while maintaining their SMART structure. If cooking every night becomes overwhelming, shift your focus to meal prepping on weekends or choosing healthier options when eating out.

Support at Every Step

At the Childhood Healthy Eating and Active Living Center (C-HEAL), our dedicated team of dietitians is here to support your family’s nutrition journey.

We can help you:

• Develop personalized SMART goals that fit your family’s lifestyle
• Create practical meal-planning strategies
• Navigate challenges and adjust goals as needed
• Celebrate progress and successes along the way

Ready to get started? Click HERE to learn more or to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced pediatric dietitians.