If you're a busy mom, dad or caregiver, it can be difficult to come up with creative, tasty dinner ideas that your kids will enjoy. However, cooking doesn't have to be a nightly chore or something that you completely loathe. Invite your children to help out with certain tasks, such as setting the table or mashing potatoes, and they'll start to see dinnertime as a fun, family-oriented mealtime.
Considerations
Think about the types of foods your children currently enjoy. Chances are high that your kids love quick, simple and TV-friendly foods or finger foods such as chicken nuggets and fries. Dinner can be a way to expand on their current tastes. By asking them for input, you give them a sense of control and choice. According to kid-food expert Cricket Azima in an article for FoodNetwork.com, giving your children a choice -- such as by asking, "Would you prefer chicken or beef tonight?" -- makes it more likely that they will eat what you prepare.
Pasta
Most pasta dishes are quick, simple to prepare and easy to clean up. Pasta is usually one of the foods that everyone in the family can agree on. According to Azima, you can experiment with traditional favorites such as macaroni and cheese, but then add an extra ingredient such as broccoli. You can also try introducing new flavors by sprinkling a bit of feta or goat cheese over regular spaghetti with tomato sauce.
Healthy Dishes
You may be tempted to just buy a box of frozen fish sticks or chicken nuggets and pop them in the oven. However, you can often make a healthier version of these favorites yourself with little hassle, according to "Eating Well" magazine. Homemade chicken tenders and fish sticks are easily prepared by buying pre-sliced chicken or fish from your butcher or grocery store. Buy a bag of oven fries, which are healthier than frying them in oil, add a side of corn on the cob, and you have a healthy, kid-friendly meal that's sure to please.
Pizza
Almost every kid loves pizza. You might think that making your own pizza is a hassle, and you'd rather just call for delivery. However, including kids in the pizza-making process can be a fun, family-centered time while you make a tasty, easy-to-prepare meal. Invite your kids to go shopping and ask them to choose toppings they enjoy. You might suggest healthy toppings such as turkey pepperoni, sliced vegetables or grilled chicken. Buy an oven-ready pizza crust, some pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese, and you have all the ingredients necessary to make a healthy, homemade pizza.
Chicken
Some kids are particular about meats and fish, but most kids love chicken. According to "Eating Well," you can make many cheap, quick, easy and tasty dishes with chicken in about 30 minutes. For example, you can try making your own version of Chinese chicken with noodles or grilled chicken fingers. You can find the recipes for these dishes in many sources.
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