5 Tips for Healthy Kids

Photo: Thinkstock/Tijana87

Encouraging kids of any age to eat a healthy, balanced diet is an uphill battle for many parents. I only discovered how big the problem was when I was faced with looking after two teenagers during my school holidays.

Fussy eating and allergies are two of the biggest food obstacles facing new parents. I’ve included some of my top tips below to encourage kids to eat more healthfully.

Get Them Involved in Food Decisions

Children can take an active role in every aspect of food planning. Picking out fresh produce at a local farmers market or grocery store is a great time to teach them about which fruits and vegetables are in season and how they can be cooked.

Get Tech-Savvy

Children nowadays are much more technologically minded. Many will have social media accounts and be experts in using different devices. Apps have opened a huge opportunity for parents to educate children about nutrition. Search “apps that teach kids about nutrition” for some great examples.

Grow Your Own

A garden is a fun way to get kids excited about healthy food. This might not be so easy for city dwellers, so an alternative could be growing herbs in the window. In either case, kids can learn about the history of the plants and how they can be used in lots of interesting and tasty recipes.

Make Meals and Snacks Fun

Getting creative in the kitchen can boost a child’s interest in everyday foods. Try blending fruits and vegetables into a smoothie, making real fruit popsicles or turning everyday, mundane dishes such as sandwiches or pieces of fruit into an animal or superhero!

Be a Good Role Model

Kids are impressionable, especially at a young age, so it is important to set a good example with your own eating habits. 5 Tips for Healthy Kids - Sticking to a regular routine, eating together as a family and of course consuming a wide range of healthy, wholesome food is the cornerstone of promoting a healthier diet plan for children.

Tammy Jordan on Instagram
Tammy Jordan
Tammy Jordan is obtaining her master's degree in nutrition at Hunter College in New York. She is passionate about functional and integrative nutrition and is particularly interested in gastrointestinal and mental health disorders. She works as a volunteer at NYU Langone Medical Center research department and is on the student advisory committee for the Academy. In her spare time, Tammy enjoys yoga, trying out new fitness classes and exploring the Manhattan restaurant scene. Connect with her on Instagram.