Getting the kids to eat

Breakfast

Getting the kids to eat

They loved meatballs and rice last week so why don't they fancy it tonight?  And what's wrong with the carrots today? 

If it's one of those days, then here are some tips to encourage eating - we picked them up from friends - and our own trial and error:

• Try cutting the carrots and other veggies in  rounds rather than in strips for some reason this is more appealing
• If possible, put the meal on a central serving plate and let the children help themselves they seem to enjoy having some control and choice over their meal
• Put smaller amounts on the plate and let them ask for seconds
• Lots of children like plain boiled rice basmati rice is quick (8 minutes), easy and doesn't get sticky
• If you are worried about getting more goodness into them, try boiling rice in homemade stock (see recipes for kids to eat) made from chicken and/or vegetables
• Try a small soup starter (not too hot) in a mini bowl - it's fun and a little grown up.
• Children seem to like to eat with the grown-ups  - we sometimes have a mini starter portion with them at tea time and then our adult meal later.
• Eating outside in the summer is fun and less messy all round.  Meals in a basket or bowl are a bit of fun outdoors.
• In the winter, indoor picnics on a large sheet on the floor can inspire mealtimes
• Most kids love cooking, so try and choose meals they can help prepare see recipes for kids to make.

I try not to get too stressed any more about food and look at their overall diet in a day rather than each sitting.  Sometimes a cooked breakfast is their biggest meal of the day and I'm told this has a beneficial effect on their schoolwork. 

Breakfast

I'm sure your school will agree, that giving your child a good breakfast will help their concentration and learning throughout the day.  I know mornings can be chaotic, but often I find it relatively easy to cook them something quick (these suggestions do not allow for allergies or special dietary requirements, but are a few ideas for children with normal nutritional needs):

• boil a couple of eggs while they're getting dressed - my son loves warm egg sandwiches! (4 minutes to prepare)
• pop some frozen sausage rolls or croissants in the oven (10 minutes)
• heat up a tin of baked beans and serve on toast (4 minutes)
• fry an egg in some olive oil and serve on toast (3 minutes)
• pop some cheese on toast under the grill (apparently this is great cold for lunch too!!!) (5 minutes)
• offer them cheese or ham for a 'continental' option (2 minutes)
• keep a bowl of freshly chopped fruit to hand and lots of yoghurts (1 minute)

Worried about your child's diet?

Every child is different and most parents I know worry about their child's eating at some point.  If you're really concerned about your child's diet or whether they are under/over weight, then maybe a visit to the school nurse or a call to your health visitor will help.