How To Encourage Children Healthy Eating

Picky eaters are a tricky bunch to please and it can feel sometimes feel like a battle to get some nutritious food in them! You may be tempted to cave and give your child their favourite foods but here are some tips you might not have tried yet! 

Lead by Example

Children have natural tendency to imitate so be a good example of healthy eating. So, your children will want to try new vegetables and fruit if they see you eating. When you make healthy food choices for yourself, you are teaching your kids about healthy eating.

Eat Together as a Family

Having a routine where children are served dinner approximately the same time creates expectation which improves appetite. A comfortable, relaxed eating environment generates positive associations and allows children to be exposed to a variety of foods. Breakfast is a great meal to enjoy together as parents can role model making breakfast a priority.

Make it Fun 

Kids love having fun and this creates a positive association with healthy eating too. Try making fruit kabobs using a skewer where your child can select their own favorite pieces.

Make Homemade Smoothies!

Try fruit smoothies for a quick healthy breakfast or afternoon snack. Children can choose which fruits to include. As a child, I enjoyed making strawberry Banana smoothie with vanilla yogurt and milk

Make it Convenient!

Keep lots of fresh fruit and veggie washed and available for quick snacks, to add to lunches or to include in meals. Keep these foods available and visible to promote consumption. Apples, pears, bananas, grapes, carrot and celery sticks are all easy grab on the go. Remember to add yogurt, hummus or nut butter for extra protein.