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Now that summer is over and the kids are in school, most families are back to living hectic schedules. Between homework and extra curricular activities, Moms (and Dads) also have the challenge of making dinner each night. The pressure of preparing delicious, nutritionally balanced and cost efficient meals is often overwhelming. However, having a meal plan saves time, energy and money. Simply apply these tips and you’ll have the piece of mind in knowing there’s one less thing to do on your to-do list.

Survey your freezer, refrigerator, cupboards and pantry to take inventory of what you already have. Next, search grocery ads to see what items are on sale and plan your meals around them to save money. As a rule of thumb, schedule simple meals on busier days and go for more complicated entrees on days with nothing planned.

To save time on the weekdays, utilize the weekends for food preparations. Dicing, chopping, mixing and baking in advance is a tremendous help. Cooking double the quantity also works well. Having precooked food on hand is important when life throws your an unexpected curve ball. You’ll be prepare and won’t have to panic or spend money because you already have a plan of action: a meal plan.