Motivating Kids to Eat Healthy Foods

By: Tori Bowlin

May 01, 2024

Mom and daughter having fun in kitchen

Do you have a picky eater in your household? Or maybe you've got a snack monster who’s all about chips and candy? We're here to share a few fun strategies to motivate your little superheroes to snack on healthy foods instead!

Rainbow Power-Up

Eating a rainbow isn't just for unicorns! Different colors mean different powers:

  • Red foods like strawberries and tomatoes help your heart.
  • Orange foods like carrots and sweet potatoes help your eyes spot things like an eagle!
  • Green foods like spinach and broccoli help you grow super strong bones.

So, create a plate with as many colors as possible. The more colors, the more powers!

Super Smoothies

Blend your favorite fruits, such as bananas, berries and mangoes. Add some milk or yogurt and a handful of spinach. Your kids won't taste the spinach, and they'll drink a supercharged smoothie that gives them the energy to tackle any challenge.
Create a Parfait Packed with Delicious Layers!

Veggie Villans

Who said veggies can't be fun? Turn them into heroes by giving them cool names and fun shapes. Make carrot sticks "Captain Crunch" or broccoli florets "Broc the Rock." Dip them in hummus or peanut butter for an extra flavor kick.

Snack Attack Plates

Create snack plates that are as fun as they are nutritious. Combine:

  • Cheese cubes
  • Grapes or apple slices
  • Nuts or seeds
  • Whole-grain crackers
  • Mix and match these for your perfect plate!
Make Your Own Trail Mix 

Fuel-Up Challenges

Challenge your kids to eat three different healthy foods each day. Turn it into a family game to see who can eat the most colors or try the most fruits and veggies. You can even draw up a "super snacks" chart to keep track of your progress.

Final Super Tip!

Even superheroes have cheat days. Don't worry if your family doesn't eat healthy every meal. Just aim to eat more of the good stuff than the not-so-great stuff. Your kid's bodies will reward them with tremendous energy, focus and strength.

 

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