Mixed Messages

As owners of a nutrition consulting company we spend a lot of time doing cooking demonstrations. The demonstrations give people the opportunity to discover that healthy foods and recipes can taste good.We also talk about nutrition with groups and individuals. When we talk to parents with young children, we are repeatedly asked,

"How do I get my kids to make healthy food choices?" "How do I get my kids to eat more vegetables?" "How do I get my kids to try new foods?"

Imagine my surprise when we are at a food demonstration, family celebration, or party; the food is served, and we hear parents tell their children,

"You won't eat that." "You won't like it."

Wow, talk about confusing! On one hand we are telling kids to make healthy choices, eat vegetables and try new foods, but when they have an opportunity to try new things we are there to tell them they won't like it. We even hide fruits and vegetables in dishes.Sadly, that response defeats the purpose of trying to encourage nutritious food. It's our job as parents to teach children to eat healthy, try new things, and be adventurous eaters. We have to encourage them, provide a good example by practicing what we preach, and stop negating our efforts.The next time you serve something you think your child won't like, be positive. You may be pleasantly surprised that they're eager to try it..