Little children love to be actively involved in what adults are doing, and there are loads of ways to leverage this enthusiasm. And, even as they get older and that enthusiasm wanes, there are lots of benefits for still getting them on board.
So, get all your kids to help out with meal prep. They can take turns on jobs, do a night each, or whatever plan suits your family. Younger children can help out by washing fruit and vegetables, while older kids can be more hands-on.
When children are allowed a glance at the process of food prep and feel engaged in the result, they are more likely to eat what they’ve helped create. Involve kids in planning the meals and shopping for the ingredients as well as cooking. For more mealtime fun, you could also give them the special task of setting and decorating the table.
It’s easy to obsess about what your kids are eating and how much. Are they getting enough protein? Should they be eating more vegetables? This concern is natural, but if that’s all you focus on, you’re likely to end up stressing yourself and your little ones out.
Try easing the pressure by focusing on the fun and connection of mealtimes. This is a rare opportunity to have everyone sit down together, away from distractions. The more relaxed and fun mealtime is, the more your kids will look forward to it and forget to focus on what they’re eating.
Never underestimate the power of a special plate or piece of cutlery! A fun plate can help make any mealtime fun for your kids.
We love this range of bamboo dinnerware for kids from Bobo & Boo. Not only is it bright and appealing, but it’s also sturdy and non-toxic. Give your child more ownership by letting them choose their favourite colour!
You don’t have to stop at plates, either – help your toddler feel like a big kid with this adorable Toddler Feedie cutlery set just for them.
For generations, savvy parents have been able to get their children eating a range of fruit and veggies by disguising them. The modern-day version of this is the go-to smoothie. You can pack a lot of nutritional punch into a smoothie while still making it appeal to kids.
Double down on the nutrition by adding a Smoothie Bomb to the cup. Packed full of all the essential nutrients every family member needs, these bombs of goodness are nutritionist developed and selective eater approved!
And because there’s so much goodness in there, smoothies aren’t just for breakfast (even though they are a handy way to do brekkie in the car on the way to school)! You can make any mealtime fun by offering a yummy smoothie in one of our bright and beautiful Montiico smoothie cups – available in regular and mini size.
Did you know that kids aren’t just selective; they actually need more colour and options on their plates than adults? According to a Cornell study, “Children are most attracted to food plates with seven different items and six different colours. Adults, on the other hand, tend to prefer only three items.”
Bento boxes are a great way to fit a variety of different food types in – and they don’t have to be just for school lunches. Why not bring them out at dinner, breakfast, or snack time?
Back to school is fast approaching, so it’s time for the important business of school preparations to commence.
Bags, lunchboxes, drink bottles, healthy food ideas… they all need to be sorted.
Luckily, we have you covered with the ultimate 2023 back to school guide. Let’s jump into it!
It’s a great time to get outside for a picnic and enjoy some family activities. Here are our favourite Spring picnic activity suggestions, perfect at home in the garden or heading on a road trip.