{"id":1275,"date":"2023-02-25T12:32:00","date_gmt":"2023-02-25T12:32:00","guid":{"rendered":""},"modified":"2023-12-12T12:22:09","modified_gmt":"2023-12-12T04:22:09","slug":"vegetables-for-kids-how-to-get-your-kids-to-eat-more-vegetables","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/magazine.circledna.com\/vegetables-for-kids-how-to-get-your-kids-to-eat-more-vegetables\/","title":{"rendered":"Vegetables for Kids: How to Get Your Kids to Eat More Vegetables"},"content":{"rendered":"

Preparing vegetables for kids can be a nightmare sometimes, and forcing your kids to eat them could escalate into family dinner drama filled with tears and harsh words. Although you may have the best of intentions, coercing your children to eat food that they dislike may result in an unhealthy association with food and bad memories for meal times. It\u2019s really a parental concern to strive for mealtime balance because you want your kids to reap the nutrients from veggies since they\u2019re a part of the five main food groups<\/a>, but at the same time, it\u2019s not uncommon to see young children turn their noses up at vegetable dishes. Getting kids to eat vegetables could be challenging, especially for kids who are picky eaters. <\/p>\n

If you\u2019re lucky, you have one of those kids who embrace a variety of veggies and many other new foods. But if your kids are more difficult eaters, fret not, and don\u2019t blame yourself. A Harvard study<\/a> noted that all children are picky eaters in some way or at some point in their childhood, since food and what they eat is a way for them to assert their independence. Moreover, some kids could have a very stubborn temperament and just be naturally pickier than others so they shun all sorts of vegetables for kids. <\/p>\n

Some kids may need exposure to different ways of preparing vegetables, for them to slowly get used to eating and enjoying vegetables. Prevent picky behavior by introducing different foods, especially a lot of cut-up fruits and vegetables for kids. Veggies provide important nutrients for growth and development, so introducing them gently to kids is vital, even if they are somewhat resistant. Starting early also means you could encourage more well-rounded eaters. If you\u2019re having a hard time getting your young ones to love vegetables, these tips may help.<\/p>\n

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Start Introducing Vegetables for Kids Early<\/h3>\n

A child\u2019s independent streak usually kicks in at age two, which is why there\u2019s a phase dubbed \u201cthe terrible twos\u201d. If you want to increase the likelihood of your baby loving dishes with vegetables for kids you have to start feeding them vegetables early to avoid pickiness. Offer different varieties of veggies at various meals.<\/p>\n

As much as you\u2019re tempted to coddle your young kids because they hate mashed broccoli or steamed spinach, don\u2019t cook them a separate kid\u2019s meal. Model good behavior and let your children eat what everyone on the table is eating. You can\u2019t expect your kids to be adventurous with veggies if you\u2019re not doing the same thing. Research shows<\/a> that parental influence is one of the most dominant aspects that determine a child\u2019s eating behavior and food choices. <\/p>\n

Don\u2019t Get Discouraged, and Keep Offering Vegetables For Kids<\/h3>\n

If your kids refuse a specific vegetable, don\u2019t throw in the towel right away. Instead, keep the food preparation and portion size in mind. Offer the same veggies using various cooking methods, and have your children start with two to three bites. Having smaller sizes will prevent tantrums because they won\u2019t be overwhelmed compared to a full serving. <\/p>\n

More importantly, pay attention to what your child enjoys. Perhaps they don\u2019t like cauliflower bulbs but will eat mashed cauliflower disguised as mashed potatoes. By the same token, they may not like sauteed spinach but will be more receptive to a spinach omelet with cheese. Some children also prefer cold veggies instead of hot ones, and vice versa.<\/p>\n

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Pay Attention to Food Prep and Make Eating Time Extra Fun<\/h3>\n

Remember who the older generation discouraged children from playing with their food. Do the opposite so your kids will have a healthier relationship with food, especially veggies. Instead of boring vegetables for kids cut into strips, use small veggie or cookie cutters in the shape of stars, flowers, and hearts. You can also use basic shapes like circles and triangles to make different designs akin to what bento artists<\/a> use to create beautiful meals. Use colorful plates to make meals more enticing. <\/p>\n

When food is presented in a fun way, children form a positive association with the experience. Remember, the appearance of food matters, which is why high-end restaurants take pains to garnish plates. That\u2019s because people also eat with their eyes first before they even taste the food. When veggies look appetizing and fun, it may decrease your children\u2019s anxiety around meals and alleviate the pressure to eat. Utilizing a fun plate with various cut-up vegetables for kids empowers children to touch, feel, see, and smell the food. They can even engage their hearing by snapping a french bean in half or squishing a pea. The whole experience is a sensory adventure instead of a mealtime battle.<\/p>\n

Get Kids Involved With Shopping and Meal Prep<\/h3>\n

Help your children see veggies as their allies by asking them to help make a list and bringing them with you to the store. Allow them to handle, bag, and weigh produce to get them comfortable with vegetables for kids. Tell them what the veggies are, how it tastes, and what they can do for their bodies. <\/p>\n

Even if you don\u2019t go to the store, you can also do this activity online. And, whether in-store or delivery, ask your kids to help you unpack the groceries. Then, as you plan your menu for the week, ask for their assistance. Have one child pick one or two veggies and how they want them prepared. You can also engage them with age-appropriate activities during meal prep<\/a> such as: <\/p>\n