Fussy Eaters
I 've had to look after children who are fussy about something.
If it's not the veggies, it's the fruits. And of course, we are stressing out to try new things because we are always scared, they might be allergic to it. If it's not with the tomatoes, it's with the dairy. If it's not with the dairy, it's the dried fruits.
It's a non-stop argument and stress, for both kids and adults.
And let's be honest, you don't see very often your child with a clean plate, clean hands and with an angel face, in their childhood...
But our biggest frustration is our fear we have, regarding the impact on they will have with their eating habits. We all have tried to sneak a couple of veggies on the spoon while they are not looking.
But I've always found a way to get them intrigued and try new things out! From the classic pieces of fruits onto a straw to the doll's plate...
Children, and especially toddlers, are in a mimic phase. They copy their siblings or us. So, sharing the same meal around the same table, in a pleasant atmosphere, is a MUST!
Don't forget, a veggie might not taste good on its own, but if you mix it up with the others...
A 6-year-old didn't like to eat eggs and veggies. She ate a spinach/broccoli sauce with rice - eggs - carrots.
With Pasta
Instead of putting a tomato sauce, why not try a veggie sauce you have previously mixed? Or use it as a dipping sauce with some extra cheese.
By teaching
Children are so curious. It's a fact! And more you will teach them, more they'll want to know...
Teach them about where the food comes from, the growing process...
Get them involved
Bring them shopping with you. It's playful and very educative. They will have to recognize things, ask you questions about it...And it's a great way to get them taking part in the housework.
They will realize how important food is and be responsible for prepare things for the rest of the family. Even the smallest things in the preparation are rewarding!
Watch for the portions
Children might be a bit frightened by the size of the portions given.
By trying smaller portions, or even, put the food in different ramekins and let them serve themselves.
"What you're putting in your plate is what you will eat"
It's "picnic time"
Instead of preparing full and elaborated meals, you could simply try to use the word "picnic".
It could be a meal when we all use our fingers. Use plastic plates or even the pizza box you've kept for the occasion. Whatever it takes to make things funnier and out of the "usual".
Making food attractive
Your children are the best lesson for you to be creative again! Use some colourful fruits and vegetables to make it look like a rainbow (ask them about the colours) ...make it like a face...
There is no limit to the creation and takes no time...
