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.

EXPLORE
Dinosaurs Unleashed
What: Marvel at towering animatronic creatures and learn which modern-day animals they resemble most.
Why: The T. rex looks so real, he’ll swear it roared.
When: Thru July 10. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: Fort Worth Zoo, 1989 Colonial Pkwy., Fort Worth (817-759-7500). Adults and teens, $12; children, $9; under 2, free.

PLAY
Diá de los Niños
What: Bambinos watch free performances, do crafts, and get their faces painted.
Why: Kiddos get special treatment on the day just for them.
When: Sat., noon-4 p.m.
Where: Rose Marine Theater, 1440 N. Main St., Fort Worth (817-624-8333).

LISTEN
Children’s Story Hour
What: Hear a tale and do hands-on activities (ages 2-8).
Why: Nature-themed books like The Legend of the Blue Bonnet jive with April’s earthy vibe.
When: Wed. & Sat., 1 p.m.
Where: The Women’s Museum, 3800 Parry Ave., Fair Park (214-915-0860). To register (required), call 214-915-0862 or email emily.embry@thewomensmuseum.org. Adults, $5; children 13-18, $4; children 5-12, $3; under 5, free.

Photo: Courtesy of Nutri-plate