Vegetables are an important component of a healthy diet. Vegetables contain a significant amount of vitamins, fiber, macro- and microelements, and biologically active substances. Regular consumption of vegetables promotes the growth and harmonious development of a child, prevents the development of diseases (obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular pathologies, and gastrointestinal tract disorders). Of course, vitamins and minerals can be obtained by taking biologically active food supplements, but nutrients are better absorbed by the body from natural products.
How to Get Kids to Eat Vegetables
Unfortunately, children often refuse to eat vegetables because they are more guided by their feelings. It can be extremely difficult for parents to convince a child or make him at least try vegetable dishes. In this case, advice from a nutritionist and some little tricks can help:
- Vegetables should always be freely available. Vegetable slices can be placed on the table, then children will be able to come up and take vegetables/fruits on their own during the day. Cucumber, carrot, and bell pepper are best suited for vegetable slices. The slices can be decorated with fresh herbs. Sometimes children like to eat dill and parsley in whole bunches, rather than chopped.
- It is important not to forget to buy vegetables regularly so that there is always a supply in the refrigerator.
- For children, the personal example of parents is important. If mom and dad eat vegetables regularly, the child will pay attention to this and will also want to try vegetable dishes.
- Let your child choose vegetables on his own, involve him in preparing vegetable dishes together. Children love to help set the table and decorate ready-made dishes.
- The element of play is important for children, so you can periodically resort to such methods: try a product with your eyes closed and guess whether it is a fruit or a vegetable; depict something on a plate from fruits and vegetables (faces, houses, trees, cars, etc.). Children are interested in new games, especially if their parents also take an active part.
- Vegetables can be used as a healthy snack in nature. Active recreation in the fresh air increases appetite. A child is unlikely to refuse vegetables if they are served at a picnic at the very beginning of the meal.
- The above tips apply not only to vegetables, but also to fruits. You can combine carrots, apples, pears, bananas and others in the slicing.
Of course, you shouldn’t put too much pressure on your child, or force him to finish his portion and leave the plate clean. Such parental tactics can cause even more protest from the child.