May 24, 2012
Save Email Print Bookmark and Share
A A
Reporter: Pat Persaud Email

Don't Let the Kids See Your Funny Face

To begin with, it's important to set a good example for the kids.

Dr. Gina Direnzo-Coffey, with Boys Town Pediatrics, says, "When you sit down to eat with them, you should be eating healthy foods. If you don't eat healthy foods, if your husband makes funny faces about vegetables, they're not going to eat them. So, set a good example."

Here's another trick: don't let the kids fill up on snacks and drinks. The doctor tells us that she sees lots of toddlers who are getting too much milk or juice.

"Older kids don't get enough milk," she said. "But toddlers love their milk."

As for the green stuff, a little kitchen magic can make the veggies more appealing. You can find the magic on your spice rack.

"If a vegetable is prepared well, so it tastes good, kids will eat it. And I think that's part of it. Don't hesitate to use a little seasoning. Kids don't necessarily like bland," Dr. Direnzo-Coffey said.

Having fruit out, within easy reach, can also be beneficial. Make healthy choices part of the daily routine. You can also enlist the help of the kids when it comes to meal preparation. Get them involved with things like washing the vegetables.

For more parenting tips from Boys Town, visit their Web page here on MomsEveryday.com.