Mom's Talk Q&A

Massapequa moms say that child rearing, school, blended family issues, meal planning, weight control and the economy are just some of the hot parenting topics in our area.

Our question of the week has to do with something moms deal with every day - food!

What is your strategy for eating healthy while still satisfying the demands and tastes of the rest of the family?

At a recent Weight Watchers meeting, local moms talked about the difficulties in just going out for a walk or to the supermarket due to changes in school and work schedules with the recent bad weather. “It’s very difficult to take my son out in the stroller,” said one mom who was at the meeting with her 3-year-old. “It's my only exercise, but I'm afraid to go out with all the ice and snow. Many sidewalks aren't clear and walking on the street is difficult because there is no shoulder in many places because of the piles of snow.” She said she often turns to making “comfort foods” like macaroni and cheese or pizza especially when everyone’s home for an unexpected school closure.“ The kids want it and often I’m just too exhausted to plan a big meal.” She said she sometimes goes to the mall to get some exercise, but misses the fresh air and getting outside.

At the Massapequa Weight Watchers, leader Sindy Skolnick had words of encouragement. "It's not whether you get knocked down, it's whether you get up," she said to the group of about forty people at the meeting on a recent Monday morning. "It's a quote from Vince Lombardi that helps me," she added.

What do you do? The Moms Council shares your concerns and will be posting their suggestions and strategies. We're looking for yours, so please add your comments and questions and we'll try to find some answers together!