Spinach in everything. All the time. Here’s why.
This is a strange obsession of mine and I’m praying it will pay off in the end. Hear me out. My goal is not to “hide” vegetables from my kids. It’s more to “incorporate so as not to overwhelm”. If I can build the flavors of veggies into what they’re already eating, hopefully those flavors will become normal to their palates. If they know they eat (and enjoy) veggies on a regular basis, then hopefully when they’re presented with those flavors as they grow older, they won’t freak out. And of course this isn’t just about spinach, but anything I want them accustomed to so they’re willing to try in the future.
Gently incorporating veggies into regular meals draws less attention to the green stuff and drastically reduces the drama. Finely chopped spinach can be stirred or wilted into basically anything without altering the taste too much. Use this trick on yourself!
When my first son was really young, he’d eat anything we gave him. We thought we were super parents and didn’t get the concept of kids being “picky eaters.” Until he got a little older. And his taste buds developed right along with his opinions. Turns out, it’s common for little ones to try anything and gradually become pickier as they enter toddler-hood.
Back when I thought I was Super-Mom, I wasn’t into the idea of “hiding” the good stuff because I thought kids should eat vegetables for vegetables sake. Because I said so. Unfortunately, that’s just not reality. If they’re turning down what you’re offering, they’ll refuse to even try it, then you’ll end up in a fight. Nobody wins. They’ve ingested no nutrients, you’re frustrated and one or both of you is in tears.
If you really ARE Super-Mom whose 4 year old asks for brussels sprouts every night, then Cheers! Or if you THINK you’re Super-Mom because your ONE year old consistently eats his veggies, go ahead and book mark this one, I’ll meet you right back here in about 6 months.
How are you getting your kids to accept vegetables as a regular part of life?
