Achieving balance before you had kids meant managing a glass of champagne, plate of hors d’oeuvres, and the phone at the same time.

How simple that seems compared to your current battle: getting your kids to eat healthy meals.

Find your way to a happier dinnertime with the help of Nutri-plate, which visually reinforces the components of a balanced diet. Developed by two professors/moms — one with a background in developmental psychology, the other in industrial product design — the plate features kid-appropriate portions (fruit/veggies, protein, whole grains, and fats) laid out in a fun, graphic manner.

Proof it works: When we skimped on the steamed broccoli, our little soldier was quick to point out we had underserved the green stuff.

Looks like the war has been won.

Available online at nutri-plate.com, $12.

SPROUT
EarthFest and Kids Grow Expo
What: Check out exhibits, learn about gardening, and watch live animal shows.
Why: Young green thumbs put their work on display.
When: Fri., 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Temple University Ambler Campus, 580 Meetinghouse Rd., Ambler (267-468-8000). Info at 215-988-8897. Admission is free.

BRANCH OUT
Arbor Day
What: Go on a scavenger hunt to learn the importance of trees.
Why: Nature nuts who complete the search get a seedling to take home.
When: Sat., 1-3 p.m.
Where: Morris Arboretum, 100 E. Northwestern Ave. (215-247-5777). Adults, $16; children, $7; under 3, free.

CHOW
SquareBurger
What: Fill up on hot dogs and slurp an orange creamsicle shake when the snack bar opens for the season.
Why: Just try to resist the new Birthday Bonanza sundae — even if it’s not your birthday.
When: Daily, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: Franklin Square, 200 N. Sixth St. (215-629-4026).

Photo: Courtesy of Nutri-plate