How to Get Kids to Eat Healthy

How to Get Kids to Eat Healthy: Transforming Family Meals with Real Food

Making adjustments to your family’s eating habits can be challenging, especially if you’re dealing with picky eaters. However, it’s worth the effort to ensure the health and well-being of the ones you love. Today, let me give you some powerful strategies to encourage your children to embrace real food, (hint: these strategies are drawing from the principles of the Real Food Reset we’re doing right now!!)

Gradual Introduction to New Foods

It’s a common misconception that children will instantly take to new foods. Research indicates that it can take between eight to fifteen exposures for a child to accept a new food item. Start by consistently including vegetables and whole foods in their meals, without pressuring them to eat everything. This process builds trust and familiarity with healthier options. Remember, patience is key, and a bit of wasted food is part of the learning curve.

Open and Honest Dialogue

Communication is crucial in this journey. Have an open conversation with your children about the importance of real food. This discussion should be age-appropriate and can include topics like the impact of poor dietary choices on health and energy levels, without necessarily focusing on weight. Admitting past mistakes in family eating habits and expressing your desire to improve can also be powerful.

Involve your Children in Decision-Making

Recently I talked about this in a podcast episode about Kids and Real Food. Involving your children in meal planning and decision-making empowers them and makes them more likely to try new foods. Ask for their input on which healthy foods they’re curious about and include their choices in your meal plans. If they’re hesitant to suggest options, you can take the lead while still keeping their preferences in mind.

Engage them in the Food Process

Turn grocery shopping and meal preparation into a fun and educational family activity. This is particularly effective with teenagers, who are on the cusp of independence. Teaching them how to cook and involving them in grocery shopping not only educates them about food but also instills a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the meals prepared.

Try Educational and Exciting Approaches

Try approaching the introduction of real food with enthusiasm. Share with your children the fascinating aspects of how foods affect our bodies, like how certain foods can boost immunity or improve eyesight. Consider watching documentaries or reading books about food and health together. This educational approach should be informative, not fear-inducing, emphasizing the positive impacts of healthy eating.

Adopting a healthy diet isn’t an overnight change, and it’s rarely perfect. It’s a gradual journey requiring patience, understanding, and a supportive community. As you embark on this journey with your family, remember that your mindset and approach can make a significant difference. By fostering an environment of curiosity, education, and involvement, you’re not only changing your family’s eating habits but also setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy choices.

Remember: Don’t Do It Alone!

Starting the journey of healthy eating with your family is a commendable endeavor, but it’s not one you have to undertake alone. Join our Kingdom Fit Moms online community, a supportive space where you can connect with other moms sharing similar goals. In this community, you’ll find encouragement, share experiences, and learn from each other as you navigate the challenges and triumphs of incorporating real food into your family’s life. Together, we can uplift each other, exchange tips, and celebrate our successes. Sign up today and become part of a community that’s committed to creating healthier families and breaking the cycle of poor eating habits. Your journey towards a healthier family is just a click away at kelseywickenhauser.com/community. Join us, and let’s thrive together in this mission!