Healthy eating in the family starts with us as the parents and it is our lifestyle habits that will determine the lifestyle habits and well-being of our kids.
One way to get your kids interested in healthy eating is to include them in the cooking process. Here are some benefits of doing so:
1. Developing an appreciation for healthy foods
Cooking and eating together as a family will encourage your kids to appreciate healthier foods. If we eat healthy wholesome meals our kids are likely to follow our example.
2. Encouraging kids to try new foods
My kids love to help out in the kitchen and my youngest is more likely to try a new food or meal if he has been part of the cooking or baking process. The process of cooking with your kids will help them to cultivate an open mind when it comes to trying new foods.
3. Boosting their self-esteem
My 4-year-old son helped me make healthy flapjacks over the weekend and he was so proud of himself. When kids are given the opportunity to help you with something important they feel a sense of pride and independence, which helps boost their self-esteem.
4. Encouraging family bonding
Allowing your kids to be involved in the cooking process allows for a wonderful amount of quality time with one another. Dinner gets cooked every evening regardless, so why not use that time to bond with your kids? They will love the one-on-one time with you and creating a meal together will be a lovely bonding experience for both them and you.
5. Enhancing fine motor skills
Including your kids in the process of stirring, mixing ingredients, rolling dough or chopping veggies is a wonderful way to enhance their fine motor skills as well as their eye-hand coordination.
If your kids are a bit older, cooking/ baking can also help them build on basic maths skills by doing something as simple as counting eggs or using measuring cups.
