Busy Parentpreneurs: 4 Ways to Get Your Kids to Eat Better

Life is so darn busy for all of us, and the pressure is on from morning to night to cross everything off that list of to-dos. It can be challenging to balance the needs of a growing family. On top of that you’re running a business or working full time! As a busy parent, and an entrepreneur (parentpreneur) getting kids to eat healthy is a great place to start on the path toward making yours a happy and healthy family. Here are 4 proven tips for getting your kids to eat better.

Grow Your Own

Even if you have no time or land for a proper garden, a small patio, balcony, or even a well-lit window can make a great place for a small container garden. Growing food or herbs for yourself, and tasting something fresh off the vine is a great way to not only teach our kids about where food comes from, but it also inspires them to try new foods they might otherwise reject. In my backyard we have a raised vegetable garden and our kids love getting their hands dirty and see the vegetables growing over the weeks to come. Further, studies suggest that kids involved in family gardening are more likely to make healthy eating choices as they mature. Tomatoes and peppers are simple container plants, and fresh herbs grown in small containers, like basil and cilantro, can contribute to your cooking all year.

Encourage Young Chefs

Since we need to cook, why not turn our kitchen duties into quality time for a more healthy family. Even young children can help arrange a veggie platter or pour a dip or sauce, with help. Kids love to stir and pour when baking. Older children can learn to flip a pancake or help with a saute, under proper supervision. The huge payoff here is that kids are far more likely to try foods they help prepare.

Model Good Eating

Studies correlate parental modeling of healthful eating with children making better food choices. What that means for us adults is – we need to lead by example. As the old saying goes, monkey see monkey do. If you are open to new culinary experiences, eat lots of different colors, and always say yes to your fruits and veggies, most likely, your kids will follow suit.

Practice Patience

Work with your kids to move them toward better food choices. If you pair new offerings with old favorites, they might be more receptive to experimentation. Try not to get too discouraged if a veggie is rejected a few times; tastes change, and those peas or brussel sprouts might appeal another day. To avoid unnecessary frustration, check out these proven tips for encouraging your picky eater and contributing positively to your family’s health.

Growth towards better eating habits happens as a family. I’d love to hear from you about how you bring your family together to eat healthy meals!