Instead of getting upset with your picky preschooler at mealtime, consider getting him involved in the preparation process. If you allow him into the kitchen instead of chasing him out in order to give you more space to whip up lunch or dinner, he’ll become invested in the meal, and consequently he may try new items.
Start off by experimenting with old favorites. For example, instead of making the same ol’ PB & J sandwiches, consider creating kid-friendly fruit kabobs, pizza, and quesadillas. Kids love dipping, stacking and rolling up their food into fun treats. Purchase some mini bagels, flour tortillas, cheese cubes, tomato sauce and pepperoni and make them feel as though they are pint-sized chefs while creating nutritious and delicious lunches.
Children are also more likely to try new foods if you engage them in the shopping process. Go to your kids for new mealtime ideas. If nothing else you can use the shopping trip to teach them about the importance of reading labels and knowing which ingredients are healthy and which should be limited, such as hydrogenated oils, artificial additives, preservatives, sweeteners, and colors.
Another idea is to play shopping games. For instance, when you are in the produce department with your child ask him or her to find one item that represents each color of the rainbow. If your son’s favorite color is red have him find a new red fruit or vegetable he would be interested in trying at home. Other games include having your kids choose a new food item that has a similar look or texture to an old favorite. For example, apple lovers could try sweet, crunchy jicama and cantaloupe lovers could try honeydew melons or kiwi.
What are some of your favorite tricks to get your child to experiment with new foods?
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