Freedom to Choose

I think rules and guidelines are good in the kitchen with kids. I like safe kitchens, clean kitchens, and kids that are hungry for dinner.

However, giving your kiddos freedom to explore food without restrictions is what is going to have an impact on them enjoying new foods and healthy options!

Here are a few suggestions:

Fruit Bowl:

Find a beautiful bowl (or a few) and buy all sorts of fruit AND vegetables that can be stored at room temperature. Now put the produce in it and place it in a spot where kids can access it... all the time. No rules about when or how much. This move was one of the most life-changing in terms of trying new things and not debating over what snacks were appropriate at what times of day. Unlimited fruits and veggies. You just have to try and keep up with the demand!

Community Plate:

Sharing is caring. What is more fun than sharing good with your friends and family from the same dish? Putting healthy finger foods on a large accessible plate or platter for everyone to reach at the table promotes independence in choosing something healthy on their own! Have your Wee Cook help you prepare it. It can take any shape and theme you want! From a dried fruit and nut bowl to caprese salad to as simple as sliced carrots and celery!

Be Flexible:

When we make kids stay and help for the duration of an entire recipe or force them to eat foods and meals that we don't even eat (yes, I have done that!) it creates a resistance to whatever you are trying to accomplish. Be open with their varying attention spans. I'm not promoting catering meals for only children or entertaining kids with their food (although sometimes it's fun). I'm simply saying if you make a meal sit down and eat it together.

Infuse Fun:

Make learning about food fun! There is so much to teach while you are cooking and eating together. Talk about the specific ingredients in the dish. Tell stories about how you absolutely hated broccoli until you added butter and then fell in love! Have them taste parts of the recipe along the way. Get their feedback about the different flavors and smells! Make time in the kitchen the most memorable of the day.

I am all for regular dinner times, clearing the table and helping with chores associated with cooking but when it comes to cooking and eating together give them space to choose and have fun!