Kid food fights might be a norm at your house, however, I have a few tips that just may help. Lucky for me, one of my kids is a fabulous eater. This took a great deal of pressure off while grocery shopping and prepared meals. But with the other kid, she had some particular food habits that made it hard at times. On the positive side, it encouraged me to be more creative in the kitchen. Below are a few things I learned over the years, not just from my kid, but from my patients. I hope they help!
But before you read this post, check out the video below. It is VERY OLD ( Pearl is now 18) yet it helps get kids to become proactive in learning more all the different kinds of vegetables. When kids explore and pick their veggies, it encourages them to at least try them!
No Labeling
I realize the temptation is strong but not only does it not help the situation, but it also will not make your child feel good if they overhear you say it.
Be a Role Model
Always put the same foods on your child’s plate as everyone else has. If this is consistently done, overtime, the child will eventually adapt to, Monkey see, Monkey do.
Green Eggs and Ham
This book is a must have. Keep it handy – – lying around the house, and maybe even a copy in the car. It’s a playful approach in encouraging kids to try new foods; even just one bite.
Proactive Kids
The more kids are involved: grocery shopping, gardening, chopping, even placing foods on pretty platters, the more likely they will want to try the foods. Here are some recipes that are easy for kids to help out with.
Food History Stories
Kids love a good story. At the dinner table, begin a story about a certain vegetable and then weave in some trivia and history. Have them join in by asking what country, say, broccoli came from and if they think it has a cousin? Or what broccoli does in the body? They really love this stuff!
Be Patient
Changes do not happen over night but stick to the above ideas and I am sure you will begin to see less arguments and more eating.
Eat well, keep hydrated, get your sleep , play and laugh!
Xoxo
