Creating meals that appeal to your kids while satisfying your tastes can be challenging. Kids aren't always interested in eating a balance of healthy food, but there are ways to present family dinners in a child-friendly way. Getting the kids involved in the meal preparation adds to their interest in eating.
Individual Pizzas
Miniature do-it-themselves pizzas give your kids a simple meal option. Each child can customize the toppings to fit his tastes --- avoiding arguments over what goes on the pizza. Pre-made pizza dough, homemade dough, English muffins, pitas or bagels are all options for the crust. Sauce is also flexible, with options including traditional tomato sauce, pesto sauce and Alfredo sauce. Shredded cheese, sausage, ground beef, Canadian bacon, pepperoni and your choice of vegetables top off the pizzas.
Taco Bar
A taco bar also allows all family members to customize the meal via on the fillings they choose for the tacos. Provide both hard- and soft-shell tacos. Ground beef is a common option for taco filling, but shredded chicken, pork or steak also work. Beans, rice, sour cream, cheese, salsa and assorted vegetables round out the topping options. The kids assemble their own tacos by adding their preferred toppings.
Breakfast
Breakfast for dinner offers a break from the usual meal options --- and most kids enjoy breakfast items. This option is particularly appealing if you don't get a chance to cook hot breakfasts in the morning due to busy schedules. Pancakes, eggs, bacon, breakfast casseroles and French toast are options for your dinnertime breakfast. As a bonus, many breakfast foods are inexpensive and quick to prepare.
Kids' Choice Buffet
A kids' choice night works well for an occasional treat, allowing the kids more control over what they eat. Provide several different finger food-style options, such as finger sandwiches, fruit, vegetables with dip, beans and crackers topped with cheese or dip. The kids fill their plates with their favorite options. You can also add a few of your own selections to make sure your kids get a balanced mix of food.
Member Comments