I knew I needed help inspiring my lad, so I went to the online source of infinite wisdom and ideas: Pinterest! Parenting, in my humble opinion, is much like teaching: other parents and teachers always have the BEST ideas. I cannot take credit for any of the following gems, but did want to pass on these new tricks that have helped tremendously. The difference is like night and day.
1. Create fun faces and shapes, etc. with their food.
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| This evening, our children enjoyed eating Pad Thai with us. Even the bell peppers and carrots were consumed without a problem! |
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| This was lunch one day when I desperately needed to go grocery shopping. I usually try to have three food groups (at least) represented. On this day, there was only two: berries and sliced turkey (they have no problem eating either). |
Something so simple made such a difference. All of a sudden a typical meal turned into a fun adventure with commentary like, “I’m going to eat the eyes first!” or “There goes the mouth!” It takes a maximum of two minutes for me to do this when serving the children lunch. They look forward to the silly face every time!
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| I found these plastic containers (that come with tops) at Dollar Tree. I believe they are sold 10 for $1.00. |
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| On the menu for lunch on this particular day: turkey slices, mandarins and string cheese. Easy peasy! |
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| The possibilities are endless! |
Each day right before lunch, my son asks, “What surprise are we eating today?!” Serving their food in separate containers has, for whatever reason, made them more excited about what they will eat. Since my boy will be attending school all day beginning next year, there is a strong possibility that I will be packing similar meals for him.
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| I also found the jumbo dice at Dollar Tree (2 for $1.00). It’s probably one of my favorite stores. |
Both my children enjoy rolling the jumbo dice on the table, counting the dots, and then taking as many bites from their food as they roll. Hooray for cross-curricular connections while eating! I know some people are very strict about what they allow on their tables during meals. On rare occasions, my son likes to bring toys to the table during lunch. If he eats his food, I allow it. I’m not a Nazi about it.