Kids are constantly on the go and seem to never run out of energy. Kids can run, jump and play for hours on end while we feel exhausted just watching them! Your children gain energy from the food they eat so it is important to provide healthy choices for breakfast, lunch and dinner. However, not every child will sit down and be still for every meal. When your child is constantly on the go, it is important to learn how to get them to get the nutrients they need and by healthy. Below are a few tips on how to get your child to eat while on the move.
Simple Food Items
Start by planning simple food items so your child can eat on the go. Finger foods such as chopped and sliced veggies and fruits are a great way to allow your child to eat while moving about. You can also offer meats and cheeses, crackers and other healthy items that are small enough for little kids hands without making your child sit down at the dinner table. Consider if you were on a privateexpeditions hike or out shopping. You would want to have quick snacks or meal items you can give your child that will nourish their bodies without delay.
Small Meals
Another option to consider is small meals. Because your child is constantly on the go and does not want to sit still for long periods of time, consider offering five small meals a day instead of the usual 3. This will allow you to provide your child with the protein, vegetables and fruits they need without stressing you out or punishing your child. Small meals are a great way to break down what your child needs in to small manageable portions.
Make Eating Fun
To get your child interested in the dinner table, make their food fun. You can use fruits and vegetables to create funny faces or play games. The old adage ‘don’t play with your food’ has long been thrown out the window. By making food fun, you can get your child interested in meal time and they will be asking you when it is time to sit down at the dinner table instead of dreading it!
Let Children Help Cook
Another option is to let your child help with the cooking. Of course any cooking done by your child should be age appropriate, but you can easily find something for your child to do to make their more involved. When your child is involved in the preparation, they will be interested in eating as well. Help your child take pride in meal preparation and explain why you eat the food. You can make the preparation interesting as well as a learning experience. Your child will be more likely to eat the food they prepare and wan to help more often, which makes dinner time fun and enjoyable.
Take a few or all of these options to heart and help your child get the nutrition they need to build strong minds and bodies!