A Parent's Guide to Getting Kids to Eat Seasonal Produce
- Kim Arrey
- Aug 2
- 2 min read
This podcast was aired on the Weekends with Ken show on CJAD on August 2nd 2025.
It's that wonderful time of year again when farmers' markets and grocery stores are overflowing with vibrant, fresh fruits and vegetables. You're ready to make delicious, healthy meals, but there's just one problem: the kids. Getting your children to eat their seasonal veggies and fruits can feel like an uphill battle, but it doesn't have to be. We sat down with a local expert to get some practical, stress-free tips.
The Power of Modeling: Eat Your Veggies First
If you want your kids to eat their vegetables, you have to eat them yourself. It's a simple concept, but incredibly effective. Children are natural mimics, and they'll often copy the behavior they see from their parents. Make a point to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, even the ones you don't love, and do it with a positive attitude.
Get Them Involved in the Process
Kids are much more likely to try a new food if they've had a hand in choosing or preparing it. Make a fun day out of a trip to the farmers' market. Let them pick out a colorful squash or a bunch of ripe berries. Many stalls will even let them try a small sample. You can also visit a local U-pick farm or, if you have the space, start a small herb garden at home. Planting and watching something grow can be a powerful motivator.
The Magic of a Good Dip
Sometimes, a little help is all you need. Don't be afraid to use a dip to encourage your kids to eat raw vegetables. The goal is to get them to eat the veggies, so don't worry if the dip isn't "perfectly healthy" at first. You can always gradually make it healthier by substituting ingredients like yogurt for mayonnaise. Dips and dressings make vegetables more appealing and can turn a plain snack into a treat.
Small Portions, Big Wins
It's easy to fall into the trap of serving adult-sized portions to small children. Remember that toddlers and young kids have small stomachs. A healthy portion of vegetables for a toddler might be just a few small broccoli spears or a couple of baby carrots. Celebrate whatever they eat, no matter how tiny the amount. If they say they don't like something, don't give up! Try serving it again in a different way, with a different texture, or as part of a different recipe.
Don't Forget the Fruit!
While a lot of the focus is on vegetables, fruits are also packed with essential nutrients. The good news is most kids love fruit, which makes them a great way to ensure your children are getting a variety of vitamins and minerals. The goal is a balanced diet of both, but if your child is struggling with vegetables, allowing them to have plenty of fruit is a great way to start.
By incorporating these simple strategies, you can turn mealtime from a battle into a positive experience and help your kids develop a lifelong love for fresh, seasonal foods.
References
Comments