I have found a great way to get Miss Cheeky Chops into the kitchen as well as trying new things i.e. fruit.

First of all we brought a step stool that has a wide base, with one step and really easy for her to get on and

Each week when we do our grocery shopping Miss Cheeky Chops gets to choose a piece of fruit and that is her treat lol. We look at all the colours and textures when we decided what to buy. Our favourites are: watermelon, grapes (red and white), apples, pears, oranges, rockmelon (cantaloupe) and pineapple.

I wait until we have a quite day together so we are not rushed; we get out lots of plastic containers of different sizes and then our fruit. Next up we get out our special tools which include a chopping board, vegetable peeler and a knife (Miss’ knife is a sturdy plastic one that is not sharp but slightly serrated - we got it on holiday when we received our meal on the aeroplane.). We then proceed to wash our hands as well as any fruit i.e. apples, grapes.

We then talk about the colour - I try to pick out things around the house or things we know about that relate; pineapple is yellow like the sun, apples are green like the grass. Texture; is the skin smooth, soft or bumpy? Next up we count; 2 apples, 3 oranges. Shape; pointy or round? I am trying to teach her about relevant objects in a fun and relaxed way with no pressure, as well as promote a healthy diet.

I cut and peel while Miss Cheeky Chops pulls the grapes from the vine. I then let her have a go at cutting with her knife (more often than not the fruit ends up squashed, but that’s ok she’s having a ball.) We also sample everything to make sure it tastes just right. Yummy, yummy.

By this stage she has usually had enough so we move the stool over to the sink and Miss starts to clean up and wash the dishes while I finish up the last of the fruit and put every thing away.

I really look forward to this time of the week as I love the sense of wonder and accomplishment that I see in her little face. The bonding that goes on it the kitchen (for us anyway) is a truly special time. It makes me appreciate what I’ve got and when we are having a bad day, I just remember the look on her face and my heart melts.

Please remember this is what works in our household and children must be supervised at all times in the kitchen especially when sharp objects are at hand (if your child picks up a knife – don’t panic just grab them by the wrist gently and squeeze. This makes then open their hand and drop the knife.)

Any fruit can be tried, use your imagination and experiment with something exotic, use canned or frozen fruit. I know that fruit can be expensive, but if you try just one different fruit once a week you will be opening up a whole new taste sensation – who knows you might just find something you like.

My challenge to you is: What fruit have you tried lately?

Take care and be well, Michelle