When it comes to getting kids to eat their fruits and veggies, sometimes parents and caregivers need to have a little fun and be creative.
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As a parent you can be a great role model for your kids by eating a wide variety of fruits and veggies every day.
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Studies have shown that you should try at least 13 times to offer a food to young children. It can take that many times before they like it.
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Let children help in the kitchen! They will be more likely to eat their fruits and veggies if they help prepare them.
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Depending on their age, ask them to chop salad, wash vegetables, serve the soup, etc. Not only are you teaching them a bit about cooking, you will be enjoying quality time with them too.
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When kids are young, offer lots of different types of foods and let them see you eat and enjoy a variety of fruits and veggies.
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Try sneaking more fruits and veggies in with other foods - chop them up or puree them and mix in with pasta sauces, lasagna, casseroles, soup, chili, or omelets.
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Add veggie toppings to pizza.
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Shredded carrots, celery or diced peppers mix nicely into a tuna or chicken salad sandwich.
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Pureed fruit or shredded veggies are a must-add to muffin mixes and pancake batters.
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Ever hear of corn muffins? Carrot beef meatballs? Zucchini bread? They’ll never know!
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Start the day by serving children sliced fruit, berries, or sometimes a small glass of unsweetened 100% fruit juice. Orange, apple, grape… mix it up!
