In case you haven’t heard, Jessica Seinfeld, wife of funny man Jerry Seinfeld, whipped up a cookbook featuring pureed vegetables and fruits hidden in favorite comfort foods such as pizza, mac & cheese, and even chocolate cake. While the reviews are mixed (I suppose you either love it or hate it), the idea itself isn’t so bad. I happen to know grated or pureed zucchini is not just healthy, but makes chocolate cake extremely moist and delicious.
While I’m not against slipping a little extra nutrition here and there (sometimes I slip grated carrots into the peanut butter of our PB&J sandwiches), I don’t think it’s absolutely necessary… or worth going through all the trouble of preparing the purees just to deceive your children into healthy eating.
You shouldn’t have to con your children into eating their fruits and vegetables. There is actually a very simple way to get your children to eat, and enjoy, these healthy foods.
What? You ask. What is the secret?
It’s not a secret, it’s actually common sense. It’s simple. It’s easy. It’s actually fun!
Get your children involved.
Yes, that’s right. Get your children in the kitchen. Plan meals with your munchkins (even preschoolers can add their own ideas). Allow them to help out with age-appropriate tasks when you’re preparing the meal. Toddlers can help you measure out ingredients and mix them together. They can gather items from the pantry or fridge. Talk through the recipes. Discuss what you’re doing. Don’t be afraid to make a mess. Children can also help with clean-up. Having your kids by your side may add ten or fifteen more minutes to your prep time, but it’s well worth it. Plus, you’re making memories, wonderful memories that may become a family tradition. Imagine your child doing the same with their children.
When your children invest their time and effort into making a meal they’ll want to try it. Afterall, it’s their creation and they want to fully enjoy it. My children have yet to refuse a meal they helped prepare.
