How to Raise Kids Who Eat Healthy

Getting kids to eat healthy food can be a challenge. Having healthy alternatives around the house as children grow teaches good eating habits. Remember, a balanced diet is the first step towards a healthy lifestyle.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Have a plan. Start with identifying a few good habits to implement.

2. Cook meals yourself. It's a lot healthier, and you know what you put in the food.

3. Avoid processed foods as much as possible. They are full of sugar, sodium and preservatives.

4. Serve a variety of foods. Let kids try different types of food.

5. Keep portions of food appropriate. Teach them to eat slowly so they don't overeat.

6. Eat dinner together as a family as much as possible. Research shows that kids that eat as a family receive better nutrition.

7. Eat the same thing as a family. Never prepare a separate meal for kids. It will become a bad habit to break, and they will have authority over you.

8. Make meal time a pleasant family affair with no disciplining.

9. Let them see you make good healthy choices. Explain and educate kids on your choices.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep healthy snacks such as nuts, fresh fruits or applesauce in stock.
• Let kids help with grocery shopping and selecting foods and snacks that are healthy. Let them practice cooking them.
• Be persistent and don't give up. Eating healthy does not happen overnight. Each small step is a step towards your goal.
• Don't use food as a reward. It may lead to obesity.