Involving kids in meal planning is a fantastic way to teach them about nutrition. It not only makes them feel included, but it also helps them understand the importance of healthy eating. Here are three practical examples of teaching kids about nutrition during meal planning that you can easily implement in your home.
This activity encourages kids to think about the variety of colors in their meals, which corresponds to different nutrients.
To start, explain to your kids that each color represents different vitamins and minerals. Set a goal for the week to create meals that include a rainbow of fruits and vegetables. At the end of the week, reflect on how many colors were included in your meals.
For instance, you could plan a meal where the kids choose one food from each color category:
Encourage kids to pick foods they haven’t tried before. Use stickers or a chart to track the colors they include each day. This can turn into a fun and educational family competition!
Creating a family recipe book allows children to take ownership of the meal planning process while learning about nutrition.
Gather your kids and ask them to help you compile their favorite healthy recipes. Each child can choose a recipe they love or want to learn to make. Include pictures, nutritional information, and why each ingredient is good for them.
For example, one child might choose a recipe for a veggie-packed stir-fry:
You can make it more interactive by having them draw pictures for their recipes or write down fun facts about each ingredient. This DIY recipe book can be a cherished family keepsake while promoting healthy eating habits.
A grocery store scavenger hunt is an exciting way to teach kids how to read labels and make healthier choices while shopping.
Before heading to the store, create a list of items with a focus on healthy options. For example, ask them to find:
As they find each item, discuss why these choices are nutritious and what benefits they provide to our bodies.
To make it even more engaging, turn it into a friendly competition: whoever finds the most items first wins a small prize! This not only teaches them about nutrition but also makes grocery shopping a fun family outing.
By incorporating these examples of teaching kids about nutrition during meal planning, you’ll help instill healthy habits that can last a lifetime.