As childminders, we all know that feeding children can be a challenge. Whether it’s dealing with allergies, preferences, or just plain pickiness, meal times can often feel like a minefield. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are some tips for handling picky eaters, along with some easy and nutritious recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
- Get creative with presentation: Sometimes, a simple change in presentation can make all the difference. Try arranging food in fun shapes or patterns, or serving meals on colourful plates to make them more appealing.
- Involve children in meal planning and preparation: When children feel involved in the process of planning and preparing meals, they’re more likely to be invested in what they’re eating. Let them choose from a selection of healthy options, or have them help with simple tasks like stirring or measuring ingredients.
- Offer a variety of flavours and textures: Children often have specific preferences when it comes to flavours and textures. By offering a variety of options, you can help to ensure that everyone finds something they like. Try serving a mix of crunchy and soft foods, or offer a range of sweet and savoury flavours.
- Sneak in healthy ingredients: If your little ones are resistant to healthy foods, try sneaking in some extra nutrition. For example, you can add grated vegetables to spaghetti sauce, or mix chopped spinach into scrambled eggs.
It’s also important to consider any allergies or dietary restrictions that the children in your care may have. With the Childminder App, parents can easily input any allergies or dietary requirements, allowing you to plan meals that are safe and nutritious for all.
Now that you’ve got some tips for handling picky eaters, here are some easy and nutritious recipes that are sure to be a hit with children:
- Rainbow veggie skewers: Cut up a mix of colourful veggies (like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and courgette) and thread them onto skewers. Drizzle with olive oil and grill until lightly charred.
- Homemade chicken nuggets: Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, coat in beaten egg, and roll in breadcrumbs. Bake in the oven until crispy and golden.
- Apple and peanut butter “cookies”: Cut apples into thin rounds and spread each slice with peanut butter. Sprinkle with raisins, shredded coconut, or cinnamon for a little extra flavour.
By incorporating these tips and recipes into your meal planning, you can help to ensure that even the pickiest eaters are getting the nutrition they need. And with the Childminder App, you can easily share meal plans and recipes with parents, helping them to feel involved and informed in their child’s care.
