5 Tips To Teach Kids About Healthy Eating

Some experts say picky eaters are raised, not born. Why? Because our relationship with food grows progressively and relies almost completely on what we saw and learned as kids. 

While this relationship changes as adults, the reality is that the base of a healthy lifestyle starts in the family kitchen. We copy our parents' example and then emulate what they say is good for us. 

So, knowing how important it is, how can we teach our kids to eat healthy? We share 5 tips to start this journey and make the best of it: 

1- Make it fun

Kids engage with food through their eyes. They are attracted to color, shape, and textures, which can be a smart way to present new vegetables or fruits.

Encourage them to try what interests them, and don’t be too adamant about it. It is all about experimentation and fun!

2- Bring the kids to the kitchen

As this study shows, kids involved with the shopping and cooking process are more likely to try new foods and better comprehend why we need to eat healthy. 

Invite them to the farmer’s market and let them pick a new vegetable on their own, then look for a recipe together and cook. Giving them choices makes them feel more connected! 

3- Don’t talk about “diets”

While eating healthy can help prevent illnesses, try to keep the conversation as positive as possible. Don’t pressure kids about weight or body types, center the attention on what’s good for them. 

This will not only prevent future concerns about self-esteem, but it will feel more like a lifestyle choice and less like something boring and restrictive. 

4- Pick healthier snacks

All kids love candy and processed foods, and so do parents! It’s convenient and readily available. However, the more your kids indulge in these snacks, the more they will want. Which makes it harder to mix in healthy snacks. For the day-to-day diet, it’s better to go for nutritious whole food snacks such as fruits, hummus, vegetables, seeds, and nuts. 

Giving them a healthy option will teach kids about self-control and responsibility with their own body, two important things to have as an adult. 

5- Make it a family moment

Involve every family member with food and cooking. Once or twice a week -the more, the better-sit down together and eat mindfully. No phones, no screens, just conversation and catching up. 

At first, it may be challenging, however, think about it as a space to honor the time and effort put into the meal. Kids might not pick it up that easy, but they will thank you later! 

Do you want to discover new plant-based recipes? Follow @VegHeadChef and start cooking with us!

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