Happy Memorial Day! Today’s guest post has been written by Tracy Kokemueller from Bookroomreviews.com. This mother of 2 is here to spread her knowledge and expertise on healthy snacking for kids to our readers. Hope you enjoy!
As a mom of two boys it can be a challenge getting them to eat their daily serving of fruits and veggies. One son has been a bit more challenging then the other. Over the years, I’ve come up with some fun ways to encourage them to eat healthy. One tip that helps is to get them involved in the preparation of those fruits and veggies. My youngest son loves to help me make the salad and spread his own peanut butter on his celery. Another tip is to serve healthy snacks with fun plates, napkins, and cups. You can find some at the dollar store. We even had a tasting party one time.
I included some of fun ways to dress up fruits and veggies below. The ideas came from various websites I’ve come across over the years. Just remember, have fun with it and lead by example. If they see you eating healthy, they will too. You are your children's most important influence and mentor.
Apples - Wash and core an apple. Slice apple into rings and top with softened cream cheese. Sprinkle with a few raisins for a sweet and healthy snack.
Fruit Salad – Get kids to help make a fruit salad. Use a variety of colorful fruits to add to the appeal.
Popsicles – Most so-called “fruit” popsicles have added sugars and should be reserved for an occasional treat. Look for popsicles made from 100% fruit juice, with no added caloric sweeteners, such as Breyers or Dole “No Sugar Added” fruit bars.
Smoothies – Blend fruit with juice, yogurt or milk, and ice. Many store-made smoothies have added sugars and are not healthy choices.
Dips – Try low-fat salad dressings like fat-free Ranch or Thousand Island, light store-bought dips, bean dips, guacamole, hummus (which comes in dozens of flavors), salsa, or peanut butter.
Salad – Make a salad or set out veggies like a salad bar and let the kids build their own salads.
Ants on a Log – Let kids spread peanut butter on celery (with a plastic knife) and add raisins.
By Tracy Kokemuller of Book Room Reviews
Labels: Guest Blogger, healthy eating, healthy parenting, Tracy Kokemuller
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This is a great post full of helpful tips and fun ideas. Although I don't have kids, I will be sure to pass the info on. I love ants on a log.