Busy parents, I feel you – the dinner table battles with our picky eaters can leave you feeling exhausted, defeated and stressed. But fear not, there are ways to turn mealtime woes into mealtime wins! If you’re tired of the endless struggle and looking for effective strategies to tackle your child’s finicky eating habits, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll explore five innovative hacks to nourish your fussy eater while reducing your stress levels.
1 – Embrace the Power of High-Quality Organ Meats
When it comes to boosting your child’s nutrition, few things can rival the nutrient density of high-quality organ meats. Yes, you read that right – organ meats! While they might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of kid-friendly meals, incorporating them creatively can offer a significant nutritional punch.
Consider adding organ meats like liver, heart, or kidney to dishes your child already enjoys, such as spaghetti bolognese. Liver in particular is a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with vitamins A, B12, and iron. These nutrients are crucial for brain development, energy production, and overall well-being. I work with many parents and often recommend opening up and adding Cell Squared Organic Beef Liver Capsules (or Cell Squared Beef Liver Powder) into homemade meals and smoothies. This is a source I know I can trust as they test and verify the vitamin and mineral content in all their organ products. The best bit? You won’t have to worry about spring and preparing a good quality fresh liver! This provides a daily dose of fresh, gently freeze-dried organ goodness.
2 – Camouflage with Colours
Children are often drawn to bright, colourful foods. Use this to your advantage by incorporating a variety of colourful vegetables into your meals. Blend them into smooth sauces, add them as toppings to pizzas, or create rainbow-inspired wraps. The more colours you introduce, the more nutrients your child is likely to consume.
3 – Get Them Involved
Turn meal preparation into a fun family activity. Invite your child to join you in the kitchen, whether it’s washing veggies, mixing ingredients, or assembling their own wraps or bowls. When kids have a hand in making their food, they’re more likely to try new things and develop a sense of ownership over their meals.
4 – Play with Shapes and Textures
Children are sensitive to textures, which often contributes to their picky eating habits. Experiment with various shapes and textures to pique their own interest. Create bite-sized portions, use cookie cutters to make fun shapes, and offer a mix of crunchy and soft elements in their meals. Playfulness can make eating a more enjoyable experience.
5 – Gradual Exposure to New Flavours
Introducing new foods doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Gradual exposure is key. Start by incorporating a small amount of a new ingredient into a familiar dish. For instance, if your child loves spaghetti, try adding a few cooked vegetable spirals alongside the pasta. Over time, increase the quantity of the new food as their taste buds become accustomed to the flavour.
Feeding a fussy eater doesn’t have to be a stressful battle. By embracing these five hacks, you can nourish your child effectively while reducing mealtime stress. Remember, patience is crucial; it takes time for children to develop a liking for new flavours and textures. Stay creative, involve them in meal preparations, and make the experience enjoyable. With these strategies in your arsenal, you’re well on your way to transforming your picky eater into a more adventurous and healthy eater.
So roll up your sleeves, put on that apron, and let the culinary adventures begin! Your child’s palate is waiting to be delighted, and you’re armed with the knowledge to make it happen. Happy cooking and happy eating!
By Steph Lowe, The Natural Nutritionist & Cell Squared’s Nutrition Expert