Tips to teach your children how to eat healthy

We teach our kids so many different things. One of the most important: An appreciation for eating healthy foods. Here are some great ways to teach children about the importance of healthy eating:

Cook and eat together. The best thing you can do to help your kids learn to love healthy foods is to cook and eat together. When you cook and eat as a family, you can control what’s being prepared and served, and use dinner as a time to introduce your kids to new foods. This is a great opportunity to teach them about nutrition and make sure they are eating their veggies and not just dessert!

Plant a garden. Make this the year to plant a garden. Even if you don’t have a yard, you probably have enough space for a few containers in which you can grow vegetables such as tomatoes and peppers. Many popular vegetables come in ‘patio’ varieties that don’t take much space to grow. What could make kids more excited about eating a cucumber or a tomato than knowing they grew it?

Eat better at breakfast. On school mornings, breakfast can get rushed into a protein bar on the go, or—worst of all—it can be skipped entirely. But breakfast really is essential, it gives your kids fuel for the day ahead, and gets them thinking about eating healthy right from the start of the morning. Instead of sugary cereals, try whole wheat toast, scrambled eggs, and fruit to give them healthy energy all day long.

Set an example. Set the right example and practice what you preach! Your kids will not want to eat salads if Mommy and Daddy are skipping them. Show them how much you like eating wholesome foods and how good you feel when you do. They will be much more likely to do the same.

Teaching children the importance of eating healthy lays a foundation for a lifetime of well-being. By introducing them to nutritious foods and explaining the benefits of a balanced diet, we instill in them the knowledge and habits that can lead to a healthier, happier future. Emphasizing the importance of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help children understand the value of fueling their bodies with the right kinds of foods. Teaching them to make mindful choices and encouraging them to participate in meal planning and preparation can empower children to take ownership of their own health. Moreover, educating them about the impact of nutrition on their energy levels, growth, and overall health fosters a sense of responsibility and self-awareness. By making healthy eating enjoyable, educational, and inclusive, we equip children with the tools to make positive decisions about their diet and well-being.