Fruit: The secret weapon in parents' nutritional arsenal

(ARA) - Parents, let's face it -- the average child will never really fall in love with Brussels sprouts, broccoli or cauliflower. But few kids object to fruit, making it easier to help children tap into its wealth of health benefits.

Fruit fights childhood obesity, according to studies by Tufts and Baylor universities that linked high fruit and vegetable consumption by children with a lower body mass index. Fruit is naturally low in calories but high in nutrients like immune system boosting vitamin C, water and fiber, which helps children feel fuller and more energized with fewer calories. Federal dietary guidelines recommend five servings of fruit per day.

Here are some tips to help keep fruit exciting and easy for you and your children:

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Fun ways to create lasting family traditions

(ARA) - Whether you're a family of two or 10, there is no time like the present to create lasting family traditions. Like families, traditions come in many forms -- from cooking to storytelling -- and making new memories is easy and fun. Here are a variety of creative ways to get started.

Gather for a family baking day

Help ensure your tried and true family recipes continue on for generations with a family baking day. Have everyone meet in a central location and bring their favorite recipe and the ingredients to make it. Everyone will have the chance to learn about cherished recipes and leave with a goodie bag of treats.

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Spruce up your holiday entertaining

(ARA) - The upcoming holidays will not turn out the way Stephanie Andrews initially planned. The tight economy is forcing her to cancel her vacation to a sunny destination. But she's really not that disappointed. That's because Andrews is going to stay home and go all out decking the halls to create memories that she believes will end up being far more meaningful.

Eat healthy - even while on the go

(ARA) - Busy schedules and holiday activities can keep you on the run, making it hard to eat healthy at this time of year. There are times when you miss a meal and over-indulge at a later hour, but with a little snack preparation, you can stay on schedule and on track with healthful eating habits.

Nutrients, fats, sugars and more - it's all on the food label

(ARA) - To determine the freshness of a fruit or vegetable, a person might squeeze, smell or even sneak a taste at the grocery store. However, when it comes to packaged foods, many Americans find it difficult to evaluate the quality and nutritional value of food items sold in cans, plastic containers and paper boxes.

Kitchen kids' favorite ingredient: Wisconsin cheese

(ARA) - Get your kids cooking in the kitchen with a simple recipe. Start with safety. Then, add an interest in learning. Sprinkle a few simple kitchen skills. And finally, mix in great tasting ingredients, including Wisconsin cheese.

Simple tips for elegant holiday hosting

(ARA) - 'Tis the season to spend quality time gathered with family and friends at festive celebrations and holiday parties. However, don't let the stress of hosting a holiday party overwhelm you - it's easier than you think to plan an elegant celebration that is sure to impress friends, family and coworkers. Try the following tips to host a fabulous party this holiday season with minimal time, money and effort:

Saying 'happy birthday' with a little creativity

(ARA) - Parents can spend a small fortune to celebrate their little one's big day, but taking a more original -- and less costly -- approach can result in even more success.