Feeding your family is already tough, but with picky eaters it can become much more difficult. Regardless of food sensitivities, strong likes and dislikes or inconsistent appetites, eating a daily meal can become a problem. Yet, by using some inspiration and good planning, meal prep can be simpler and enjoyed by all members of the family.
Aiming for diversity, uncomplicated recipes and known ingredients helps please picky eaters. Getting children to help with planning and prep can make them willing to eat different meals. The idea is to adjust meals so that everyone’s preferences are considered and food prep is not too difficult.
Selecting Recipes With Ingredients You Like
A smart way to plan meals for picky eating is to have your weekly menu feature foods your child likes. Plain and popular ingredients such as rice, pasta, cheese and some vegetables are usually accepted by many picky eaters. Making meals from these basics ensures children are safe and also gets them used to healthy food.
An option like rice or pasta allows everyone in the family to have their own toppings or sauces. It means that children get to decide what to eat without the need for mom to cook too many different meals. You may serve extra vegetables or protein alongside the meal which makes everyone happy.
Prepping Ingredients Separately For Flexibility
Handling preferences by cooking ingredients one at a time often requires less effort than making each meal separately. Different combinations of leftovers like veggies, chicken, tofu and rice can be safely put in containers and enjoyed throughout the week. This allows you to change each meal to match what your family likes.
Another fun way to eat is by setting out ingredients and giving everyone their own tray. Tacos, wraps, grain bowls and baked potatoes are some examples that people can customize themselves. It means there is less food in the trash and picky eaters know they won’t have to try anything that upsets their stomachs.
Freezer-Friendly Meals For Busy Evenings
A different way to make mealtimes simpler is to make and freeze meals in advance. Meatballs, casseroles, pizzas and baked pasta can be frozen easily, reheated and prepared in large quantities. If you prepare the meals in advance, meals won’t be delayed or cause everyone to get annoyed during busy nights.
Meal preparation beforehand helps you resist the urge to eat takeout. Even as freeze drying options become more available, grabbing a ready meal out of your freezer can be quick and is healthier than grabbing convenience ones. You can use recipes like this when you want to help your family reduce the intake of natural and added sugars and salts.
Adding Fun And Creativity To Mealtimes
If you make eating fun for your picky eater, they might become more willing to eat new things. Having lunch in a bento, shaping food or arranging small portions on colorful plates can motivate them to try more new food. Food can seem different depending just on the way it is plated.
Letting children choose what to eat, go to the market or mix together the ingredients can make them excited about cooking. Getting children involved in food preparation boosts their chance of finishing their meals. Kids from a young age can help with washing vegetables or choosing what toppings to use which makes them feel more involved with the meals.
When To Consider Additional Help
It’s normal to feel stretched when your desires, busy routines and energy conflicts arise at once. Families may find it helpful to try a meal delivery service that provides healthy meals ready to be prepared at home. You can find companies that create custom plans for kids by using child-approved recipes while still trying to maintain quality and nutrition.
Sometimes, making use of a prepared meal delivery service gives parents a break and ensures their families are eating healthy. It is very useful when students are on vacation, after holidays or their parents are very busy with their jobs.
Consistency And Patience Are Key
Shifting children’s eating habits is not something that can be done overnight. Serving new foods along with familiar ones, allowing your child to taste a little without making them feel forced and maintaining a positive table setting are all important for success. Being patient, consistent and open to change helps you feed children who refuse some foods.
Gradually, experiencing a variety of meals usually means that children get used to new foods. Make sure to plan carefully and be creative and you can find a way for everyone to enjoy the family meal prep without fuss.
