Children are usually challenging to please when it comes to food. As a parent, you want to ensure that your kids are getting the nutrients they need to grow up healthy and strong. After all, they must have the energy to play and learn throughout the day.
One way to make sure that your kids are getting the nutrients they need is by packing them a healthy and delicious lunch. But coming up with new ideas for their lunch daily can be challenging. This article will discuss a few simple recipes you can try and some tips so it’ll be easier to encourage your child to eat the food you prepare.
Motivating children to eat healthily
One of the biggest challenges for parents is getting their kids to eat healthily. After all, it’s not easy to get them to eat their greens when they would rather have a burger or some fried chicken. But there are ways that you can make healthy food more appealing to them. Here are some tips:
Make it fun
Kids are naturally drawn to bright and colorful things. So make their meals fun by incorporating colorful fruits and vegetables into their lunch boxes. If possible, get them a colorful building toy for toddlers. This toy can be built into different shapes and sizes, like a chair and a table, making their mealtime more fun and interactive.
Try different textures
Another way to make healthy food appealing to kids is by trying different textures. For example, if your child doesn’t like the texture of cooked spinach, you can try serving it to them in a smoothie or as a dip.
Pack a surprise
Another way to ensure that your kids are excited about their lunch is by packing a small surprise. This could be a toy, a note, or a picture. This will help them look forward to their lunch and make the experience fun.
Lunch meals for kids
Now that you know how to make healthy food more appealing to kids, here are a few recipes you can try:
1. Turkey and cheese roll-ups
This is a simple recipe that only requires a few ingredients. All you need is some deli turkey, cheese, and tortillas. First, lay out the tortilla on a flat surface. Then, add a slice of cheese and a few pieces of turkey. Roll up the tortilla and cut it into small pieces.
2. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches
This is a classic lunchbox favorite. All you need is some bread, peanut butter, and jelly. Spread the peanut butter on one slice of bread and the jelly on another and put the two slices together. You can also add some bananas or apples for a healthy and filling meal.
3. Pasta with vegetables
This is a quick and easy recipe that you can make ahead of time. All you need is some pasta, your favorite vegetables, and a jar of tomato sauce. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then add the sauce and vegetables. You can also add some chicken or beef for a more filling meal.
4. Pizza
Who doesn’t love pizza? You can easily make your own mini pizzas using English muffins, pizza sauce, and cheese. First, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, split the English muffins in half, and spread some pizza sauce. Add some cheese and your favorite toppings. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
5. Wraps
Wraps are a great alternative to sandwiches. You can fill them with anything you like, from chicken to vegetables. All you need is a tortilla and your favorite fillings. Spread the tortilla with some cream cheese or mayonnaise and add your fillings. Roll up the tortilla and cut it into small pieces.
6. Fruit salad
This is a healthy and refreshing option for lunch. All you need is some fruit, yogurt, and honey. Start by chopping up your favorite fruit, then add yogurt and honey. Mix everything together and pack it in a lunchbox.
7. Vegetable soup
This is a nutritious and filling option for lunch. All you need is some vegetables, broth, and spices. Start by cooking the vegetables in the broth, and add some salt, pepper, and other spices. Let the soup cool before packing it in a lunchbox.
8. Chicken nuggets
This is a fun and easy recipe that kids will love. All you need is some chicken, bread crumbs, and spices. First, preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Mix the bread crumbs with some salt, pepper, and other spices. Coat the chicken in the bread crumb mixture. Bake for 20 minutes.
The takeaways
There’s no reason why healthy food can’t be fun and exciting for kids. With a bit of creativity, you can make sure that your kids are getting the nutrition they need. Have you tried any of these recipes? If not, give them a try right now!
