Cooking as a family has numerous benefits

PINE BLUFF — Because of the new coronavirus (covid-19) outbreak, schools across the country are closed and many parents and caregivers are home due to businesses being closed or work-fromhome assignments, Easter H. Tucker, interim family and consumer sciences program leader for the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, said. Parents may be wondering how to strike a balance between work, keeping their children entertained and regular household duties such as cooking dinner.

“All family members may be feeling a bit confused because of changes in their normal routine during these trying times,” she said. “However, the silver lining could be finding new, meaningful ways to spend time together as a family. For example, staying at home together presents a unique opportunity for families to cook a variety of meals with one another.”

Helping parents cook can be a fun educational opportunity for children and teens. The activity is engaging and will give them a sense of responsibility and accomplishment. And for parents, teaching their children how to cook a variety of meals can be an opportunity to bond with them.

Tucker said there are many healthy, easy-tomake meals families can prepare together while they are sheltered in place. She recommends individuals take advantage of the following tips from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to prepare nutritious meals on a budget:

• Plan. Sit down at the computer with your family and pick a week’s worth of recipes on the USDA MyPlate website (www.choosemyplate.gov). Let each member of the family pick out a dish they would like to try.

• Make a shopping list. Remember to include snacks and beverages for the week. Focus on healthier foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, dairy and protein foods (meats, beans, eggs, lentils and peas).

“Keep in mind, you may need to plan alternate dishes because you may not be able to find all the items on your list,” Tucker said. “Many of the grocery store shelves could be skimpy or bare due to recent over-shopping.”

• Buy foods that cost less all year long. Beans and eggs are low-cost, healthy protein foods. Frozen vegetables such as green beans and spinach are also good low-cost choices.

• Stock your kitchen, but do not overbuy. To make sure healthy ingredients are on-hand for future meals, individuals can also buy canned beans, fish and low-sodium vegetables and soups, as well as wholegrain pasta, brown rice and quick-cooking oats.

“Just remember not to purposely hoard products,” Tucker said. “We are all in this boat together and should keep in mind that others need access to healthy foods too.”

• Store fresh foods right away. Use fresh fruits and vegetables and milk quickly to prevent spoilage. Always buy in-season produce as it costs less.

For recipe ideas, nutrition information and shopping tips, visit www. choosemyplate.gov.