Invite your Child into the Kitchen, and Cook!

I am asked daily, “how do I get my child to eat?” While there is no magic recipe or answer, there are some tactics that may make the answer to this question more attainable.

First, take a step back and restart. Your child is probably eating more than you think. Are they eating some protein, carbohydrates, vegetables, and dairy? Find out their favorite foods and have them assist you in the kitchen making them. Even a small amount of safe, supervised participation can give them the feeling of being part of the process and accomplishment. They will be more likely to eat what they make because they participated.

Hopefully, with repetition, they’ll want to help with other foods, too. Then bridge from favorite foods to new foods. If pancakes are a favorite, try waffles and French toast. Zucchini muffins are a great way to sneak in a vegetable and you can even add a few chocolate chips. Hand-held foods and unique shapes may also help. Muffin pans and cookie cutters add a unique size/shape to foods. Mini meatloaf and mac and cheese cups are new again in muffin shape. Add broccoli for adventurous eaters, but for those who hate green foods; chop cauliflower and mix in your cheese sauce. Tomato sauces can also be a great way to hide vegetables for pasta-loving children.

Mealtimes do not have to be a battle. With careful planning and encouragement, you can slowly bring around the pickiest eaters over time.