Q&A: Healthy school lunches

It seems like almost every family has at least one picky eater who turns up his or her nose at everything from apricots to zucchini. Use various tactics to help them become more adventurous and healthier fruit and veggie lovers. 

Here are a few tips you can try:

The “No, thank you” bite. Have your child try at least one bite of a new food before deciding whether he or she likes it or not.

Organize a field trip. Visit a farmers market, where the farmers themselves can help kids choose a ripe cantaloupe or the best butter lettuce.

Ask your child for help. Encourage your child to help plan meals and grocery shop. Respecting your child’s opinion helps reduce power struggles. Build a balance between nutritious foods and drinks and those that are just for fun.

Pack light. Rather than having your child eat the school lunch, take control of the choices by packing a healthy lunch two or three (or more) days each week. Allow your child to choose between two options already approved by you. For example: “Do you want apple slices or grapes in your lunch today?” When children are involved in making their own lunch, they may also be more likely to eat it.

Learn more about healthy eating.