“I’m not your assistant,” my 6-year-old son declared, hands on his hips and eyebrows raised. I had just asked him to relocate his collection of superhero comics from the kitchen table to his bedroom. After a minor negotiation that ultimately secured his cooperation, I took a moment to chuckle, recalling that he picked up that phrase from me. It’s one of my favorites, so naturally, the kids wield it against me with great enthusiasm.
It’s amusing how my children seem to expect to be catered to, despite the absence of any actual servants in our home. I’m not entirely sure how this notion developed. Perhaps it’s my mother, who has transformed into a doting caregiver: “Can I get you anything, darling? Have you had enough to eat?” Or maybe it stems from their early childhood when they relied on me for every little need. Perhaps it’s influenced by the magical house-elves from a certain famous series.
Regardless of the origin, I have decided to leverage this expectation to my advantage, particularly regarding their snack consumption.
For seven years, I have navigated the challenges of picky eating, ever since my son transitioned from an adventurous toddler who relished a variety of foods to a choosy eater who would rather go to bed hungry than touch a sandwich. I began my journey with a thought-provoking parenting book that tackles the complexities of picky eating, and I made sure my kids were taking a reliable multivitamin. While my children may be slender, they continue to maintain their height and weight on growth charts.
Since I refuse to force-feed anyone, my children have ended up with a diet that is healthy yet somewhat restricted. They may see an array of nutritious options on their plates, but they aren’t obligated to consume them. Consequently, I have adopted some clever strategies, especially when it comes to incorporating fruits, vegetables, and proteins.
1. Gourmet Snack Presentation
Instead of allowing the kids to grab their usual snacks like Goldfish or granola bars, I prepare an attractive platter filled with sliced fruits, cheeses, whole-grain crackers, and fresh vegetables. This method works wonders, especially if left out during moments of distraction, such as screen time.
2. Snack Preparation
When I pack fruits for their lunches, I take the extra step to peel and chop them in advance. For example, this week, my kids are enjoying cherries, which I have pitted and de-stemmed. They consume them far quicker than any processed snack.
3. Timing is Everything
I’ve noticed that my children tend to be hungriest right after they wake up in the morning and after school. I make sure to have healthy snacks accessible during these peak times as I prepare the main meal, but I keep it laid-back and casual.
4. Smart On-the-Go Snacks
When we’re traveling, I always pack nutritious snacks to avoid temptations from unhealthy gas station options. If they are really hungry, they might choose applesauce or a bag of almonds over junk food.
5. Accommodating Requests
If my kids request a specific snack or if I’m serving a treat, I also ensure to provide one of my healthier, prepped options alongside it.
Recently, while observing my snack-prepping routine, my mother remarked, “Wow, Jane, you’ve really changed!” I was lovingly arranging the snack platter during their rare iPad time. I asked her, “What did you have for snacks when I was a child?”
“We didn’t have snacks in the ‘70s,” she replied.
Exactly. Back then, snacks were often limited to a warm can of soda and a squished treat from the pantry. They were hardly appealing. Modern parents have learned valuable lessons from those days of restrictive eating. We know that children are more likely to eat what is both tasty and readily available. Instead of focusing on what they can’t have, we prioritize what is nutritious and beneficial for them.
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In summary, by adopting a snack assistant mentality, parents can cleverly navigate the challenges of picky eating, ensuring their children receive the nutrients they need while making the experience enjoyable and stress-free.