This article isn’t about hiding food from your child. It is about helping them to realize the true value of healthy food.
Start Slow
Even one heaping spoonful of green beans can be overwhelming to a small child. Rather than overwhelm them with a new food, just place one or two pieces of the food on their plates. There is no need to force your kids to eat a whole bowl of lima beans. Getting just one down their throats is a huge accomplishment and they will feel successful after just one or two nibbles.
Make It Small
There`s a reason the Japanese bento lunches are so popular. They incorporate many foods, but in small portions. Kids love to have choices. While you do not need to invest in special containers, you can certainly present food in small portions. Try placing several different foods in small muffin cups or in ramekins. When faced with an array of foods, kids will tend to test them.
When In Doubt, Dip It
Oh, the joys of dip. Ranch dressing is a popular technique to go for many kids, but you can try a variety of dips. Sour cream with some onion soup powder mixed in is tasty and yogurt with honey makes a sweet dip. Try giving kids thin strips of vegetables or fruit or even some whole grain crackers to dip.
Keep It Friendly
Too many parents end up turning dinner into a war zone. They fight with their children over what to eat and everybody ends up upset and angry . . . not a very conducive atmosphere for eating well! Instead, try making it a non-issue. Lay out the rules (no dessert unless each food item has been tasted, etc.) and then stick to them. If your child does not wish to eat, do not force it . . . but do not give in and hand them a cookie later in the evening, either!
Have Fun
The whole idea that you should not play with your food is ridiculous. Making healthy food fun will encourage your children to try new things. For example, turn a banana into a sea monster with bits of carrot for eyes, a gaping mouth with sunflower seed fangs and a spine of jagged banana chips.
Getting kids to eat healthier Is not just a matter of sneaking spinach into their brownies. While this approach might work for some families, it is far healthier to let your kids choose their own food that’s good for them . . . it will be an education that lasts a lifetime.
