It's no secret that children can be fussy eaters. However, when you have a full plate and little free time, the challenge isn't necessarily getting your child to eat: it's getting him to eat what's actually good for him. Before opting for fast food, consider some quick and easy tips for healthy eating at home.
Buy Healthy
It may sound like common sense, but it's true: having healthier foods available in the house may encourage your child to eat better. Don't want them to eat snack cakes? Don't buy them. In addition, opt for healthier versions of the foods they like, such as baked chips or enriched breads. The American Academy of Pediatrics also suggests using low-fat milk, and choosing cereals with at least 2g of fiber and less than 10g of sugar per serving. Once you learn which healthier choices meet with your child's approval, keep them on hand in the house at all times.
Prep Snacks Ahead
Got a few extra minutes on a weekend? Wash and slice some fresh vegetables or fruits and stash them in containers in the fridge where your kids can grab them easily during the week for a snack. You can also divide up single-serve portions of fun healthy dips, such as hummus or low-fat salad dressing. In addition, washing fruits ahead of time and putting them on display may encourage your child to grab a handful of grapes when he is hungry. Dairy is especially important for young children, and making healthy choices available to them may help prevent a calcium deficiency. Keeping individual containers of yogurt or low-fat string cheese on hand can help.
Pre-make Meals
Another way to maximize your weeknight time is to prepare and store ready-to-cook meals ahead of time. To boost the appeal of healthier foods in evening meals, the American Academy of Pediatrics advises thinly grating vegetables into pastas or bakes and adding dried milk to creamy soups. Layer a vegetable-filled lasagna on Sunday night and simply throw it in the oven when you get home on Monday. Make double batches of easy-to-freeze meals such as healthy soups or sauces and take them out to thaw a few hours before mealtime. Or use a slow cooker in the morning to have a healthy dinner waiting for you when you get home.
Healthy Fast Food Choices
When you have a soccer meet followed by a piano recital, there isn't always time to get home between for a wholesome meal. Sometimes fast food is a must for families on the go. However, the drive-through doesn't necessarily have to be unhealthy. Many kids' meals are now offered with a side of fruit instead of fries. You can also choose milk over a soda or simply keep a stash of water or 100 percent juice boxes in your car.
Member Comments