by Kay D. Sadell

Created on: March 25, 2009   Last Updated: March 26, 2009

Parents know how difficult it can be to get your children to eat everyday foods. So when it comes to introducing new foods to your child it can be an all out war! Refusal to eat paired with hissy fits can ultimately turn a nice family dinner into a disastrous event for everyone. But like the old saying goes, if at first you don't succeed, try try again!

Asian cuisine is perfect for getting your children to try new food. There is so much to mix and match with various meats and vegetables you are sure to find something for even the pickiest of eaters.

Positive Encouragement

Stay positive when getting your child to try a new cuisine. Children are little sponges soaking in every comment and reaction around them. If you have older kids or a spouse who makes negative comments about Asian cuisine, most likely your child will not want to try it.

Studies show that most food phobias in children come from their mom and dad. By being a good example for your child and eating new foods in front of them, your child may be persuaded into trying it something new too.

Start Small

Don't start pulling out the wasabi and chopsticks just yet. Baby steps is the good way to approach Asian Cuisine with children. Try taking your child to an Asian buffet to get acquainted with the cuisine. There you have a casual dinner setting that is familiar to your child with a hint of oriental flair to make it interesting for them. Places like these have so many different dishes to choose from, it can help narrow down what your child is willing to eat.

It is very likely that your child has a favorite meat and favorite veggie so let this be a good starting point for introducing Asian cuisine. Take them around the buffet to see if there is anything else they are willing to try.

Chicken on a stick can be fun for children and crab rangoon is usually a big hit for young and old. Asian buffets generally have fresh fruit platters available too. Most children don't mind eating fruit, plus it can be a nice reward for trying something new.

Homework

Maybe the buffet experience was a hit, or maybe it wasn't. The key is to not give up and keep it familiar. Try finding some easy Asian recipes you and your child can work on together in the kitchen. Children get a sense of pride when making their own creations.
Sometimes seeing everything that goes into the dinner can help them get over the fear of new foods as well. Lighten up and try making things fun, they are children after all!

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