Kid-Approved Meals

By TopHealth

Kids can be tough customers when it comes to healthy meals. Battling and bribing aren't good long-term solutions. So how can you convince them to eat more nutritious foods?

Set a good example. Eat wholesome foods, watch portion size, stop eating when you're full and model a sense of adventure about trying new dishes.

Get them involved. Even small children can help pick out produce at the store, lend a hand in the vegetable garden, decide what to make for dinner and assist in making a meal.

Add appeal. Presentation can make a big difference. Use colorful plates, arrange vegetables into a smiley face on the plate, make sandwich kebobs or serve a frozen banana on a popsicle stick.

Make it more fun. Try creative names for dishes, especially those prepared by children (Peter's Perfectly Puffed Potatoes, anyone?), or use themes such as Italian night. Use low-fat dips to jazz up vegetables, or encourage your child to create a new recipe, such as his/her own version of trail mix.

Eat together. Whether it's takeout or a homemade dish, what matters is sharing the meal. Keep it relaxed and enjoyable. If family meals occur only once or twice a week, mark it on your calendar as a special event. Turn off the TV and avoid taking calls. And if teenagers are reluctant, let them invite a friend over.