5 of 27

Write now Article Tools

Try these tips mom-tested tips for getting children to eat healthier.

SMOOTHIES:

A fun, easy way to get in lot of nutrition is to add two servings of fruit, cup of ice and cup of milk into the blender and puree. You can also add some plain yogurt or a scoop of low fat ice cream if you please. You can call it a smoothie, a fruit icee or a milkshake, whatever entices your crew but it's a smart way to get in two servings of fruit and calcium. Keep a variety of fresh fruits on hand and offer choices. Try this: "We have strawberries, pineapple, blueberries and bananas. Which two fruits would you like in your milk shake today?"

Serve it in fun plastic cups and add a straw. Whatever you call it, it's a great addition to breakfast, a healthy snack and a genius dessert substitute.

SOMETIMES A MOM'S GOTTA DO WHAT A MOM'S GOTTA DO:

So you've tried. There's left over peas and steamed carrots from Sunday that your kids turned down. Monday night's squash and steamed cauliflower weren't touched either. This is when we have to think about what our kids do like and how we can add in what they don't like.

Does your child love spaghetti? Use a blender or a food processor to puree veggies like squash and peas and add into marinara sauce. One half cup each will add nutrients without a noticeable change in taste. Do you a cream potato lover? Their taste buds will never notice a half-cup of pureed carrots or cauliflower mashed in but the rest of their bodies will.

DOES YOUR CHILD NEED A MULTI-VITAMIN?:

Does your child need to take a multi-vitamin? Obviously getting nutrition from foods is best but if you're concerned that your child may need a vitamin supplement, you can discuss this with your child's pediatrician. To be realistic with your pediatrician (and yourself) about the nutrition your child is getting from their diet, keep a journal for a week of what your child eats and take it with you to your next visit.

BEST OVER-ALL TIPS:

Be a role model by showing your kids healthy eating habits. Your kids are much more likely to do what you do than to do what you say.

Start early in the day. It's tough to get in five fruits and vegetables all at dinner. Begin at breakfast and add healthy choices at snack time and lunch and there will be less pressure by dinner.

Take it slow. Don't try to overhaul everything at once. It will be overwhelming to you and will probably start a rebellion with in your family. Try to add in or take out just two foods per week. In only one month you will have made eight healthy changes!

Learn more about this author, Angela La Fon.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Tips for getting your child to eat healthy?
We want to hear your view. Write now!