We all know that food is the fuel to keep our bodies moving but for children food is key for developing bodies and minds. Vegetables are known for their high nutrient count of vitamins and minerals; everything from vitamins A & C and folate to potassium and iron. But what happens when your little one won’t eat their veggies?
The next healthy step is fruit. Fruit tends to be a favorite with most kids, its sweet and colorful not leafy and green. Here are some alternative choices when your child won’t put a bite of broccoli or kale in their mouth.
Vitamin A helps with cell reproduction, boosts immunity, promotes bone growth and helps maintain healthy skin and hair.
Cantaloupe, Watermelon, Tomato and Mango
Niacin assists in a a properly functioning digestive and nerve system and healthy skin.
Avocado, Peaches, Tomatoes, Bananas
Vitamin C plays an important role as antioxidant, which protect the body’s tissues from damage of oxidation.
Orange, Kiwi, Strawberry, Blackberry
Folate is important for red blood cell production.
Kiwi, Banana, Mango, Orange
Calcium we all know is needed for bone growth and strength.
Orange, Blackberry, Kiwi
Iron deficiency can adversely affect the immune system and result in impaired learning ability and behavioral problems in children.
Raisins, Prunes, Dried Apricots, Watermelon
Magnesium is used for building bones, manufacturing proteins, releasing energy from muscle storage and regulating body temperature.
Watermelon, Tomato, Avocado
Potassium is essential for the body’s water balance and proper heart function.
Banana, Mango, Kiwi
I am NOT a medical professional just a parent that has gone through many picky eating stages with many kids. I by no means expect parents to stop offering nutrient rich vegetables but sometimes we have to wave the white flag and just get food into our precious children’s bellies.
broccoli on fork image provided via FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Come join me and my co-hosts, Sarah of Play to Learn with Sarah, Paula at Frosted Fingers and Sara at Sensibly Sara, each week linking up a post, new or old, that feature the theme Kids in the Kitchen. It doesn’t matter what you are doing as long as you are doing it together, enjoying it and learning something along the way.
- preparing healthy snacks
- having a tea party
- counting skills with m&ms
- pouring from measuring cups
- discovering a local restaurant that your kids love
- creating new family friendly recipes
You’ll find so many more ideas on the #KidsintheKitchen Pinterest Board.
