Picky Eaters
Having kids is like having the worst roommate of all time. They never clean up after themselves and aren’t the most considerate. You can slave over a hot stove for hours, make a gourmet meal and they will look you dead in the eyes and tell you it’s disgusting. Picky eaters are the worst. Maybe they are picky or maybe, just maybe, you actually are a terrible cook. Just kidding. I think. Either way, here are some tips to hopefully get your kids to eat.
Give Them a Choice
When I say to give them a choice I do not mean to let them eat whatever they want. I think that is a major misunderstanding. I don’t think you should let them eat whatever they want. I know people will disagree with me and that’s fine. I know kids who would eat only candy and toaster strudels for breakfast, lunch and dinner if they could. What I mean is make a variety of different kinds of new foods to try. They can choose which one they want to try that day. It’s giving them options without allowing them to eat junk.
Farmers Markets
Another fun way to introduce healthy foods is to take your kids to the farmers market. They will have fun seeing the variety of fresh fruits and veggies and you can give them the money to pay for the produce. It creates independence and makes them feel like they are involved in the meal planning. Plus, farmers markets are just fun. They usually have art and activities for kids to enjoy so you can have an entire fun filled morning.
Cook Together
I feel like this one is pretty self explanatory. When they cook something they are more likely to eat it because they created it. It gives them a sense of accomplishment and independence in the kitchen that they can carry into adulthood.
Be a Good Example and Get Creative
If your child sees you eating doritos for dinner every night they are going to follow suit. Show them that healthy foods can be delicious by getting creative with your meals. Add veggies to their favorite foods or make homemade veggie fries instead of french fries. There are so many ways to get creative with food.
Picky eaters can be a pain but teaching your child how to eat healthy by making it fun is the key. Getting angry will only create resentment and future eating problems like a possible eating disorder. I hope these tips helped.
Talk soon,
Bri