Tips for Making Healthy Dinners for Kids

At the end of a long day it is nice to come together as a family to enjoy a good meal. Meals shared with family provide more than just nutrients for kids, they also provide brain food.

Researchers have found that dinnertime conversations help young children learn approximately 1,000 additional rare words compared to only 143 from parents reading books aloud. Studies also show that children who eat dinner with their family will consume more fruits, vegetables and vitamins, and are more likely to continue healthy eating habits as they age. They’re also less likely to fall into the temptations of drugs and alcohol.

Try the following tips to make your evening meal as nutritious as possible:

• Be sure to include all five food groups.
• Dinner is a great time to introduce new foods to children. Remember, it can take 10-15 times of trying a food before a child will acquire a taste for it.
• Encourage kids to eat fruits and vegetables. If they have a hard time eating them, try implementing a rewards system.

Here are a few ideas for fun, family-friendly dinners:
• Zucchini Noodle Ravioli with Ground Turkey
• One Pan Honey Garlic Chicken and Vegetables
• Rainbow Veggie Spring Rolls
• Asian Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry
• Pizza Quinoa Muffin Bites
• Blueberry Pancake Frozen Yogurt Pops or Avocado Chocolate Mousse for dessert

What is your favorite meal to cook with your family? Let us know in the comments below.

If you enjoyed this post, you may also be interested in:

• One-Pot Meals for Easy Weeknight Dinners
• Cook an easy, budget-friendly dinner tonight with these 3 healthy recipes
• Cool Kitchen: 10 Satisfying No-Cook, No-Bake Recipes

Photo credit: jacoblund

This post has been updated from a version originally published Oct. 3, 2016.