Each night moms across the nation are faced with a dinner dilemma. Everyone wants something different to eat. Parents want something fresh and healthy, but the kids just want something cheesy or deep fried. As a mother of two picky little eaters, I have had my share of failures trying to get them to eat “big people food”. It usually results in crying and frustration all around.
My solution came in the form of a late dinner one night. The boys and I were out running errands a little later than usual and by the time we got home it was past our dinner time. I went to the kitchen to throw some tacos together and my ravenous little boys followed me. As I prepared the food, I would slip them a bite of ground beef or a piece of tortilla and they would gobble it up. When it was time to sit down and eat, I decided to try something different. I gave them each a plate with all of the ingredients separated. They ate the cheese, the meat, the tortilla, the salsa and the lettuce. But when I wrapped it all up, they wanted nothing to do with it.
I learned some valuable lessons that night. First, my kids are natural grazers. They also seem to prefer most food in their freshest state. And a nice turkey chili, while delicious to you and me, is too much flavor at once for their little taste buds. I have had a lot of success separating lasagna, quiche, stir fry, and pretty much any other meal prepared with fresh ingredients. I love being able to try out new dishes for me and my husband and yet still ensure that my kids are getting a balanced meal. So if your little nibbler has made you a prisoner to chicken nuggets and grilled cheese, break out the compartment plates and give it a try!
