Working as a nanny involves a number of responsibilities, and one of the most important is making sure the children are well fed. However, preparing meals that are both healthy and appealing to little ones can be a challenge. Here are some tips to help you create dishes the kids will love.
1. Make colorful dishes
Children are drawn to bright, vibrant colors, so when preparing their meals, try to include a variety of different colored foods. For example, you can make a grilled chicken dish with bright green broccoli, orange carrots and brown rice. The visual presentation of the dish can make a big difference in a child's willingness to eat.
2. Use fun food cutters
Another way to make food more appealing to kids is to use food cutters to create fun shapes. You can use cookie cutters to make sandwiches in the shape of stars, hearts or animals, or use vegetable cutters to make vegetables into fun shapes.
3. Hide vegetables in favorite dishes
Many children resist eating vegetables, but they are an important part of a healthy diet. One strategy you can use is to hide vegetables in dishes that children already like. For example, you can add pumpkin puree to pancakes or mix chopped spinach into pasta sauce.
4. Involve children in meal preparation
Children are more likely to eat food they helped prepare. Therefore, whenever possible, involve them in the meal preparation process. They can help wash vegetables, mix ingredients or assemble sandwiches.
5. Make healthy snacks available
Instead of having chips or candy available for snacks, try to have a variety of healthy options on hand. This can include fresh fruit, yogurt, carrot and celery sticks, or nuts and seeds. Children are more likely to eat healthy foods if they are readily available.
Preparing healthy, appealing meals for kids can take a little creativity and planning, but the benefits to your kids' health and well-being are well worth the effort. With these tips, you'll be well equipped to create dishes that kids will love.
