Moms, if anyone knows how hard it is to get your little master chefs to eat what you give them, it’s you. The good news is that going back to school doesn’t have to be a Gordon Ramsey cook off. We’re here to help make the process a little easier.
So, let’s get into it and give our mini me’s, an easier transition back to school, a yummy lunch and most importantly, a good experience.
- Plan ahead
We know this is easier said than done, but planning meals ahead of time saves you so much energy and gives you some wiggle room to get them used to the food they’re going to try. It also gives the kiddies a routine when they know what to expect. Dedicate days for certain meals and to add a little adventure to it, name it too!
- Get Them Involved
It’s no secret that kids love getting involved in activities, so why not include them in their school meal prep? This not only helps get them interested in what they’re eating, but it also gives them a sense of self confidence! It’s also an excellent opportunity to learn about nutrition, bond and most importantly will encourage them to finish off what you have packed for them at snack time.
- Offer Variety
A balanced diet is essential for children’s health and development. Offering a variety of food groups helps to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients they need to grow and be the best humans they want to be!
Another wonderful benefit to an array of food is that it helps your little one adjust to different flavours, textures and therefore expands their pallets. This exploration into new food types is a great teaching moment as well, your child learns about food, you get them to eat a healthy diet and they’re less likely to refuse food you give them.
- Make it fun
Every parent knows the struggle of picky eaters. A fun way to try to work around this would be to make the food itself fun. From cookie cutter shaped sandwiches to broccoli ‘forests’ there are so many ways to make healthy food fun.
Another fun tip is to dedicate days for certain meals, add a little adventure, and name it too!
For example: Mini Pizza Monday! – it’s fun, your child knows what to expect and you don’t spend time scrolling through an endless amount of recipes, trying to find the perfect one.
- Hydration is key
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Making sure your child is drinking enough water is a key factor in your lunch time planning. By encouraging them to love water from an early age, they’re more likely to drink it without being prompted. This ensures they’re healthy, energised and alert throughout the day. The bonus is that getting them used to water only, means no added sugar, preservatives and other additives that are potentially harmful to your child’s health in the long run.
Getting your little snack bosses to eat what you give them can be challenging, however, by adopting a few methods and sticking to them, you make lunchtime fun, informative and get them to eat a healthy balanced diet.
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