When Principles Collide

What do you do when 2 principles collide? Chose one? How about asking yourself the "And" question. Take the two things that you want (or don't want), then ask yourself, "How can I get this and that?"

Clear as mud?

Let's take an example. This is something that we've been doing for a long time that apparently, is not very common in the parenting world. We hold the following 2 principles:

(1) Do not waste food (i.e. eat what you make or take).
(2) Parents should instill good eating habits in their children. 

Now, principle (2) can be broken down into two sub-principles:
(2a) Help your children eat healthy (i.e. eat what you put on the table).
(2b) Do not make your children eat when they are not hungry (i.e. teach them to know their body's limits, don't overeat).

So most parents encourage their children to eat food on their plate, but when the child is declared full, the rest of the food gets thrown away. They wish they didn't have to throw food away, but they don't want to force their children to eat when they are not hungry. This is the typical either/or decision making process that we all fall into. But if you ask yourself the "And" question, your brain will start finding other solutions to follow both of your principles.

How can I encourage good eating habits in my kids and not waste food?

Our solution: Left-over containers!

We make each of our children eat every part of the meal that we give them, but when they are truly full (I leave this up to every parent's good judgement), we tell them to get a left-over container for the remainder of the food on their plate, and they will need to finish this food before the next meal or during a "left-overs" meal. Sound harsh? How else can you follow and teach both principles?

The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge,
    for the ears of the wise seek it out. -Proverbs 18:15