Let's face it ladies. When it comes to cooking and preparing meals for our family it is usually up to us. This means that the health of our family lies in our hands. Most of you have probably never thought of it that way. Although we can't control what our husband and children eat all the time, we can play a big part in helping them meet their nutritional needs.

Are you taking this responsibility seriously enough? Think about what you had for supper last night. Was it quickly thrown together with no thought of how it would effect your family's health? Maybe you had no time to cook or didn't plan ahead and take-out was your quick fix. It doesn't take long before it begins to take a toll on you and your family.

Good food choices at home begins and ends at the grocery store. Say no to junk before it comes into your house. If your husband is the one who can't say no to the junk food, then you should do most of the grocery shopping. Not having it in the house to begin with will save you a lot of headache. You won't have to listen to whining kids because they want that sugary treat instead of fruit. And if you have no willpower, it will help you too.

Your next move toward helping your family have better health is simply meal planning. We have all been there. Your tired, your head hurts, and your kids are driving you crazy. The last thing on your mind is supper. When you see those golden arches on the way home, it is hard to say no. However, if you had planned and made preparations for dinner you would be far less likely to give in.

If you have no idea where to start, buy or check out from the library a healthy cookbook. Sit down on Sunday and jot down ideas for meals for the week. Next, write down what you will need to make them. Look in your fridge and pantry and make sure you have all the ingredients that you will need. All that's left to do in the planning is going to the store to get the needed items.

Get your family involved by asking them what meals they would like to have. Try to incorporate some of their favorite foods. Often times with a few simple changes, you can make an unhealthy food healthy. For example, if your kids can't get enough of pizza, make it with whole wheat bread and use organic cheese and lots of vegetables. Make homemade chicken nuggets using organic chicken and bread with whole wheat flour. Bake them instead of frying.

If you have a child who likes to write or draw, ask them to design a menu for the week. Come up with creative names for the food. Kids will often eat healthy food with funny or playful names. For example: call broccoli little trees and put it in a bunny salad. Display your menu on the refrigerator. Having it up for everyone to see will help you stick to your plan.

Meal planning will make your life a lot easier and by making healthier choices, your family will be all the better for it.

Stephanie Harrison is a busy homeschooling mom to three boys. To find more of her meal planning ideas along with quick and easy recipes visit http://www.mealplanningresource.com