Life would be a lot less complicated if we all just liked the food that is healthy for us...isn't that true? Regardless of how I want my children or my family to eat, I personally still gravitate towards the foods that I loved as a child--chicken nuggets, pasta with butter and parmesan cheese, french fries, pizza...you name it. I am actually proud of myself when I "shop the perimeter" of the grocery store, and see all the fruits and veggies and "whole foods" I put in my cart. It is evidence that even I can change my ways.
My kids are not always as adventurous as I want them to be (I really can't blame them--I never tried anything new growing up!) But, I am trying hard to change that, to help them love healthy food, and encourage them to consider "treats", well...a treat! Also, I am making more of an effort to make those treats myself, so I know the ingredients going into them.
The biggest change I am trying to make is to just include them in the prep work and decision making in the kitchen. I have a hard time "letting go" and just letting the mess happen. I've always been that way--I can't deal with all the cleanup associated with them "helping" me, but lately I have been able to let them make a mess while they are preparing a dish--and I have NOT had a nervous breakdown!
I recently read an article about the many benefits of including your child in your (and their) food prep. http://www.portlandfamily.com/posts/kids-in-the-kitchen-10-benefits-of-cooking-with-children/ After reading this, I know I am making the right decision including them in the dinner-making process.
Also, for a great kids cooking/food magazine, check out ChopChop. They are fantastic!! Check it out here: http://www.chopchopmag.org/
Have a great week!
