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“Kids, dinner is on the table”
For most households where healthy eating is on top of parent’s minds and a call for dinner is dread for kids, something’s gotten seriously wrong with our society. “I am not hungry” is a very likely response once the kids have figured out that the dinner served falls in the category of healthy foods.
The typical child’s diet is in definite need of an overhaul. The quality and quantity of food children are eating today is extremely disconcerting. Thanks to lack of high standards of food business in America, fast food industry spends millions in the labs to ensure that foods on their menu stays cheap, finger licking good and devoid of nutrients. Once kids get accustomed to the tantalizing taste of these unhealthy, ultra processed items – these habits tend to persist throughout their lives.
Children have an innocent mind that notices things like burgers as “King” and dairy as “Queen”. The exploitation of the receptive mind is cleverly achieved through seductive, compelling, billion-dollar advertising, a phenomenon called “programming”. How can we, as parents, compete against these clever advertising campaigns luring our children towards the latest sugared, dyed, hydrogenated product?
I can share what worked for us:
Children behave in a “monkey see, monkey do” manner. So, choosing not to buy or use sugary drinks, juices, and frozen prepared meals at home is definitely the starting point. If you are craving for junk, why wouldn’t they?
“Reverse program” the junk food advertising by talking about the dangerous long-term effects. Do not lecture, instead engage in a discussion by asking questions such as what will happen if we ate a “Butterfinger” everyday? Establish association of deep fried sugary treats with toxicity in your body, acne on your face etc.
Making healthy food fun. For instance, turn fruits and vegetables into fun shapes or colorful plates that attract their attention. Involve children in the cooking including planning meals, washing vegetables, stirring ingredients etc. When kids take part in preparing their food, they are more likely to eat it.
Healthy alternatives to treats. I think completely eliminating “junk” could backfire when cravings and social pressure entices them to overindulge when you are not looking. For example, I prepare pizza at home, but with some riced veggies mixed into the dough, reduced refined flour and substitute with whole wheat. I have even substituted pepperoni with vegan versions, if introduced early enough, they might not even prefer the real pepperoni or sausages when they grow up.
The last thing is about patience. Celebrate small victories and stay positive. Consistency over a long time will ensure the shift in patterns and lifelong gift to your children to realize the value of healthy food choices as they grow into adults.
