Encouage kids to choose a weekly fruit or veggie
by Liz Revilla
Vertex Education Ambassador, Nutrition
As parents, we often find ourselves on a quest to make healthy eating enjoyable for our children. Introducing a variety of fruits and vegetables into their diets not only provides essential nutrients but also fosters a lifelong appreciation for diverse flavors. One creative and engaging way to get your kids excited about trying new foods is to involve them in the selection process. By allowing them to choose a new fruit or vegetable each week, you not only empower them with decision-making skills but also create an opportunity for exploration and discovery.
Here are a few ideas to help you get started:
- Create a Colorful Chart: Design a visually appealing chart with the days of the week, leaving space for your child to write or draw their chosen fruit or vegetable. Hang the chart in a prominent place like the kitchen to make it a central part of your weekly routine.
- Explore the Produce Aisle Together: Take your child grocery shopping and guide them through the produce aisle. Encourage them to touch, smell, and examine different fruits and vegetables. Discuss the unique qualities of each option and how they might taste.
- Set a Theme or Challenge: To make the process more exciting, consider setting a weekly theme or challenge. For example, you could have a “rainbow week” where your child chooses fruits or vegetables of different colors each day. This adds an element of fun and creativity to the experience.
- Involve Them in Meal Preparation: After choosing the weekly produce, involve your child in the meal preparation process. Whether it’s washing, chopping, or arranging the fruits and vegetables on the plate, hands-on involvement creates a sense of accomplishment and connection to the food.
- Celebrate Successes: Whenever your child tries a new fruit or vegetable, celebrate their achievement. Positive reinforcement helps create a positive association with trying new foods, making them more likely to embrace future opportunities for culinary exploration.
Getting your kids involved in choosing a new fruit or vegetable each week is a delightful way to promote healthy eating habits and adventurous palates. By making the process fun, educational, and interactive, you not only cultivate a love for nutritious foods but also create lasting memories of shared experiences in the kitchen.
Encourage your children to embark on this flavorful journey with you, and watch as their enthusiasm for trying new foods blossoms.