If you have children, you know how difficult it can be to incorporate nutritious foods into a Toddlers diet. Throughout Dietetics I was taught what foods a child needs for proper growth and development but I had no idea how difficult it could be to entice some children to eat their vegetables. In a childcare setting we have the advantage of 'peer pressure' to encourage picky eaters to try "just one more bite". We have lesson plans to introduce new exciting foods (studies have found that giving new foods an exciting name increases consumption) and we have the time and equipment to offer cooking classes (studies have shown that children who assist in the kitchen are more likely to eat the prepared meal). However; at home there are many challenges for parents to deal with when it comes to food.
I have recently purchased Jessica Seinfeld's book, "Deceptively Delicious" to help me learn to incorporate healthy foods into the meals I am already preparing. Although there are many books out there with the same concept (sneak healthy foods into our child's meal) I chose this book for its simplicity and illustrations. Most of the meals within the cookbook are foods I prepare regularly (such as tacos, grilled cheese, chili cookies and noodles) and some I am looking forward to preparing (ie: chicken nuggets and doughnuts).
I encourage you to try these new foods with me and submit any new recipes you have found that work in your own household. Don't forget to allow your child to help where ever possible to increase their likelihood of eating (as well as increasing their independence and self-esteem).
As a dessert lover myself, I plan to start my venture with Chocolate Chip Cookies (with Chickpeas). The recipe looks like a typical Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe with the exception of 1/2c of old-fashioned oats and 15oz of canned chickpeas (garbanzo beans) per 2 dozen cookies. The cookies will not be considered a 'health food' by any means but it is a healthier alternative to the traditional Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Chickpeas, also known as "garbanzo beans" are an excellent source of Fiber and Folate and a good source of plant protein, non-heme iron (not easily absorbed, combine w/vit. C), thiamin, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and copper.
I'll be sure to post the results as soon as I prepare these cookies!
A Cookie Swap is a nice way to get to know other parents from school while creating great gifts to give around the holiday. Domino Sugar Cookie Swap Kit includes invitations, mailing labels, guest list, recipe labels and name tags along with great party ideas! Step up the fun with contests and prizes for things like:
The Indianapolis Children's Museum now featuring Frogs: A Chorus of Colors Sept. 17–Jan. 2, 2012.
Help nurture and develop your child's growing friendships outside the classroom by scheduling weekend and evening play dates with the families in your child's class. Each week we will post activities around town and you can comment as to whether or not you will be there to meet up with other families. Not only will these activities strengthen your child's friendships, they may develop lasting friendships for the entire family. 