When a child decides that they don’t like apples or broccoli, it can be a nightmare trying to get them to eat any of it. But making sure kids eat their fruits and vegetables is incredibly important. Healthy habits are learned early, and roughly 70% of Americans don’t meet the daily recommendation of several cups of fruits and vegetables per day. Here are a few tips and tricks to make sure your kids are eating healthy, even if they don’t know it.
- Hidden health foods: If a child doesn’t know that they’re eating that vegetable they hate, they’re not going to argue. Hide less-liked vegetables into dishes that you know your child loves. For example, include some mashed cauliflower in mashed potatoes, or puree some carrots to add to their spaghetti sauce. If they can’t see it, they won’t know to throw a tantrum over it.
- Make it fun: Sometimes, looks can be everything. Not all vegetables have to be mashed up and added to other foods to make them palatable to your little ones. Try cutting up sweet potatoes into homemade baked “fries,” or arrange fruits and vegetables into fun shapes on their plate. By making the entire experience of eating fruits and veggies more fun, kids will learn to love getting their daily recommendation of healthy foods.
- Try new combinations: Kids aren’t exactly known for being culinary geniuses, but they can create some interesting pairings when given the means. Try adding veggie toppings to sandwiches, hot dogs, pizza, and more. They might not like vegetables on their own, but if you make them a new addition to a meal they love, they’re sure to clean their plate.
After a while with these tips and tricks, your kids will be eating their fruits and vegetables in no time. Make sure that they develop this habit early, and you can help your kids stay healthy for years to come.
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