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January 16, 2007 
Natural Born EatersAre your mealtimes a war zone with finicky eaters who cry at the sight of carrots and scream at the very mention of string beans? Chef Annabel Karmel, a London-based food and nutrition author (her seventh book, Complete Party Planner, filled with adorable festive recipes, recently hit the States) and mother of three, is an expert in getting kids to eat healthy. Below she shares some tips on how to convert little junk food junkies: Change gradually: Make your own version of foods kids already like. Instead of hitting the drive-through, try your hand at chicken nuggets. Pack homemade pizza with hidden veggies like mushrooms and broccoli, and use low-fat cheese. Spice up burgers with grated carrots and apples. Or bake your own cookies or muffins (they'll look like mini cakes!) using whole wheat flour and yummy dates. Start early: Young babies who are growing rapidly need the best nutrition, with nutrient-dense foods rich in calories. Instead of baby food in jars (would you trust something with a one-year shelf life?), opt for fresh meals like mashed banana. A baby introduced to fresh food is more likely to transition to family food without a fuss. Be consistent: Stick to your guns; Annabel says not to give multiple options beyond the family dinner – otherwise meals can go on forever. Get kids in the kitchen: According to Annabel, children as young as 5 can start learning cooking skills with simple recipes like scrambled eggs. Take little ones grocery shopping and have them help pick out good-looking ingredients to prepare at home. Have fun turning simple snacks into works of art (bagel snakes, perhaps?). Snack healthy: Instead of chips or cookies, Annabel advises having alternatives on hand – kids are more likely to enjoy healthy foods when they're at their most hungry. Raw veggies and hummus, fruit kabobs and wraps are safe bets. For sweets, opt for fresh fruit smoothies over sugary juice drinks. Be adventurous: Look to foods from around the world to widen your family's taste buds; you'll be surprised at the exotic flavors kids love. Stir-fry noodles and veggies prepared in a wok is a quick and healthy meal; Annabel's own children enjoyed dishes like curry chicken with apples. Soon the kids won't even realize their fave snack is vitamin-packed. Sneaky, sneaky. Complete Party Planner, available on amazon.com. For more information, visit annabelkarmel.com. |
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