Make Eating vegetables FUN

Most of us (i am certain) have children who are either going through the "i don't like vegies" stage, or have gone through it.
It's every parents worst nightmare trying to get their child to eat new food - let alone vegetables!

Why do so many

children/ toddlers dislike vegetables? There are many reasons for this. Children learn by example. If the parent dislikes certain vegetables and voices it in front of the child - the child will copy and say "no i don't like it" when they haven't tried it.
Parents can also assume that their child won't like it, so they don't give them a chance to try it. Also, presentation is another key. If it looks boring, dull and lifeless (bugger all colour and not very natural looking ) then the child won't eat it - as it doesn't look very appealing.

How can you get your child to eat vegetables?

Ok this is a big one. There are several ways you can get your child to eat vegetables. Here are a few examples:

• Rather than be negative and assume your child won't eat the vegetables, be positive and offer them in a positive way. The child may not eat the vegetables of course BUT persistence is the key - over a length of time - not on the same day.
• Don't over cook the vegetables. This is a common mistake that MANY people make. The more you cook your vegetables, the more nutrients are disappearing - which makes them go soggy and tasteless and very yucky looking.
• Cut carrots in sticks as well as zucchini and whatever other vegetables you feel like, and steam them until tender but crisp. put them on a plate along with a small plate of dip and let your child explore the different flavors.
• Make their plates colorful. The more colours there are (for instance red orange and yellow, light green and dark green) the more appealing it may be to them, and encouraging to eat.
• Everyone has seen the woolies ads, right? Make little men or spaceships or whatever out of the vegetables. This is a fun activity and will encourage children to be creative but to also eat the vegies.
• Disguise the vegetables. When making spaghetti bolognaise or a pie or whatever, grate up different veges into the dish and make them unknown.

What if my child won't eat their vegetables?

It's no biggie! Fruit offers about the same amount of nutrients as what vegetables do, and you can also make fruit fun in the same ways as you would vegetables by making little men etc.
Also, if you persist with the vegetables by offering them over and over again, the child will eventually come around and eat them. Never make a big deal out of it if they refuse to eat their veges, as this will only make your child more reluctant! Just take the plate away, cover it with cling wrap or foil until they are hungry, then get it out and put it on a table or something where they play and they will soon learn that this is what they are eating - no more lollies and chips for afternoon tea/ supper. There are vege patties available at the supermarket, they are called Bubble and Squeak or something, and birds eye makes them. You can try this also!

I hope this advice has helped and is found useful!

Cheers, Kayla.