Finally, parents can also create positive associations and eating environments to demonstrate how healthy foods are enjoyable and appealing. This will support children in developing a genuine liking and make good food choices as they grow. “Remember to never force our child into eating fruit and vegetables,”as Jansen suggested. It will creates negative impact that could be detrimental and long-lasting memories.
I am fortunate enough for having a 20 year old son who understands the importance in maintaining a well balanced diet. I know it’s not the same for everyone and there’s still a chance that it will change in my house. That is the reason I am always looking for new ways to encourage my son to eat more produce. And the best thing is both of us, my son and I are aware of the importance of eating a variety of fruits and vegetables. It is as part of our healthy eating.
Tips to Get Kids Eating Fruit and Vegetables
1. Be a Role Model
Children have a natural tendency to imitate, so be sure to provide a good example of healthy eating! If you want your child to have a piece of fruit for a snack, parents should do the same. And if you are eating vegetables at dinner, your child is likely to take notice and do the same.
2. Eat Together as a Family:
Having a daily routine where children are served meals at specific time intervals creates expectation which improves appetite. Not to mention, eating together in a relaxed environment generates positive associations and allows children to be exposed to a variety of foods. And breakfast is the most important meal of the day.
3. Ask your Child’s Opinion
Children enjoy brainstorming meal ideas and selecting foods to go in their lunch. Give your child a couple of healthy options to choose from to guide their food choices.
4. Make it fun!
Kids love having fun and this creates a positive association with healthy eating too. Try making fruit using a skewer where your child can select their own fruit pieces. Our child can make a food collage with veggies before eating their creation.
5. Dip it!
Children also enjoy dips which increases vegetable consumption. Try including vegetable dip or hummus along with vegetables as part of lunch. Parents may be surprised how many vegetables they eat!
6. Get Children in the Kitchen!
