Getting Kids to Eat their Greens

In a world of chicken fingers and hot dogs, it can be a daunting task for parents to get their little ones to eat a healthy serving (or more) of green vegetables. Kids may not even want to try a taste of greens if they think they may taste bad or there are other more familiar options available. The earlier you introduce green veggies into your child’s diet, the more likely she will be to eat and actually crave them as she grows up. Here are some ideas to slip some greens into your child’s diet. Your kiddo will actually love them!

Make Tasty Dips

If you can’t get your child to crunch on celery, green peppers, broccoli, or cucumbers, try making a low-fat dip to serve with the veggies. Kids love dipping, and the great taste will get them used to the flavors and textures of the healthy veggies. Make a low-fat dip by combining Greek yogurt, a dash of salt and pepper, some dried parsley and chives, and a bit of garlic. Blend together and serve with cut up veggies. This homemade dip is much healthier than many store-bought dips, which can be loaded with salt and sometimes sugar too. Soon your kids will start asking for veggies and dip as an afterschool or mid-day snack!

Add Greens to Smoothies

Kids love to sip sweet fruit smoothies, but did you know you can slip in some spinach and other leafy greens right into the blender and the smoothie will still taste sweet? The greens will add more vitamins and nutrients without making the smoothie taste funny or bitter. Make smoothies as you would with fruits, yogurt, milk, etc., add in a handful of greens, then blend everything together until smooth and frothy. Experiment with different veggies for new flavor combos every time.

Fun Wraps

Wraps are great for little hands and some kids love them even more than traditional sandwiches made with bread. Between the layers of meat, chicken, fish, or cheese in your wrap, add a layer or thinly sliced cucumbers, crisp lettuce, or baby spinach. You can also dice green peppers and mix into tuna, egg, or chicken salad. Each time, add more greens to the wrap as your child gets used to and begins to enjoy the flavor.

How do you get your kids to eat their greens? Do you have a favorite recipe you’d care to share? For more info like this, please visit All My Children Daycare.

By: Melissa A. Kay