How to get kids to eat healthy for holidays
The holidays are a time to enjoy the company of loved ones, indulge in delicious food and treat yourself. Teaching your kids how not only stay healthy but also teach themselves about good choices during this festive season will make for an unforgettable experience with them!
I've got 5 tips on getting all excited about teaching children what they need know:
1. Bring a Healthy Holiday Dish
To make sure there are healthy options available on the dinner table, try bringing a side dish. An excellent way to encourage kids and their parents alike is by getting them involved in preparing recipes for you upcoming holiday meal using things like vegetables or fruit as ingredients! For instance: peel grapes into salads (grapefruit vinaigrette works nicely), grate oranges over yogurt-filled pancakes--you get my drift; just remember that these activities aren't limited only towards children's nutritional needs but should be enjoyable too so don’t forget dessert while Santas shopping 🙂
2. Indulge, a Little
The holidays are a time to be generous and celebrate with loved ones. Kids needn’t feel guilty about their treat while they make up for it later on in the year, so long as everyone else is involved! Encourage healthier eating habits by emphasizing larger portions of healthy foods like fresh produce at every meal or having an extra helping if these choices come around again soon after December first rolls around next year.
3. Make Time for Exercise
As busy family time can mean disrupting a regular schedule, exercise often falls by the wayside. Make sure to make space for some physical activity even if it is only taking out your dog at least once per day- say through playing fetch in front of their favorite tree or going on walks together.
While walking may not be as exciting as certain other forms sporty activities that kids prefer these days such games like flag football offer an opportunity both parent and child alike have an enjoyable experience without feeling pressured into staying fit due them having restrictions when what we really need sometimes are limits!
4. Balanced Choices
A pre-meal snack is the key to preventing holiday weight gain. The best way to do this? Try a light, healthy option like Brussels sprouts or an apple slice! You can also keep your appetite in check by not overeating just one specific meal - that’s why we recommend serving yourself smaller portions than what you would usually get at home so it won't feel overwhelming later on when all of these other yummy food options come around again during dinner time (and don't forget about signing up for children's cooking classes!
5. Serve smaller portions of food so there is less temptation to overeat
It can be difficult to resist overeating, especially when there is a lot of food in front of you. However, by serving smaller portions, you will be less likely to overindulge. Additionally, try not to keep unhealthy foods in your home, so you won't be tempted to eat them. By following these simple tips, you can avoid overeating and maintain a healthy weight.
6. Set a well-balanced table
Christmas is a time for family, friends, and of course, FOOD. It can be hard to stick to a healthy diet during the holidays when there are so many delicious treats around. This year, try setting a well-balanced table to get your kids to eat healthy. Here are some tips:
a) Make sure there are plenty of fruits and vegetables on the table. Kids love colorful food, so make sure there is something eye-catching on the plate.
b) Keep the portions moderate. Don’t overdo it with the unhealthy snacks – just because it’s holiday doesn’t mean you have to go overboard!
c) Let your kids help choose what goes on their plate.
7. Ask your child what they want to eat instead of telling them what they can't have
Most parents have been there. You're at the dinner table, and your child is asking for something that you know isn't good for them. Maybe it's a sugary cereal or a bag of potato chips. And rather than saying no, you tell them what they can't have. But there's another option: Ask your child what they want to eat instead of telling them what they can't. It might seem like a small thing, but it can make a big difference in how your child views food. Plus, it can help them learn to make healthy choices on their own. So next time your child asks for something that's not good for them, ask them what they would like to eat instead!
