What subject(s) does this advice apply to?
Easing the transition between two households

Describe the situation or problem.
You're the parent receiving the child(ren) for the visitation weekend. The list of things your kids like is shorter than the list of things they DON'T like. Do you make the same thing weekend after weekend, and what about others in the household, stepchildren, you, your spouse?

What advice can you offer?
I recommend to pick your battles and if you don't have to pick this one, then don't. Your time with your loving kids is short enough as it is and this is an incredible and often emotion-filled transition time for them. Make it so they go back to their (custodial parent) home thinking that wow! mealtimes were a nice, family time, and they were not a source of arguments.

Please add any additional comments or suggestions.
So, you have others to consider, like a step child or two, besides this/these visiting kids? Well, do the best you can to blend the foods that appeal to all. Maybe cut up some colorful veggies for the kids to enjoy dipping in Ranch Salad Dressing prior to the meal, and then you don't have to have any "salad battles," for they ate it before they sat down to eat the meal.

Another idea is to spend a few minutes on one weekend brainstorming the various meals the kids DO like, in a preparatory way for weekends to come. The kids will feel they actually have some input and will be more inclined to eat/be a part of the meals to come. Especially if you actually do something with the list that you made together, like make a meal the next time from the list!

Be creative, think ahead, and remember that spending quality family time is what these visitation weekends are about. The kids will remember those times.

This advice is most appropriate for parents with children in...
Preschool and Younger
Elementary School
Middle School