Set a good example for children by eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains with meals or as snacks.

Let children decide on the dinner vegetables or what goes into salads.

Offer children a choice of fruits for lunch.

Use cut-up vegetables as part of afternoon snacks.

Let children select and help prepare a whole grain side dish.

While shopping, allow children to pick a new fruit or vegetable to try later at home.

Decorate plates or serving dishes with fruit slices.

Give gifts that encourage physical activity — active games or sporting equipment.

Be active and get your family to join you. Have fun together. Play with the kids or pets. Go for a walk, tumble in the leaves, or play catch.

Instead of sitting through TV commercials, get up and move. Remember to limit TV watching and computer time.

Depending on their age, children can help shop for, clean, peel, or cut up fruits and vegetables.