They Follow in Your Footsteps

When my husband was at sea or in Iraq dinner for the kids was really simple. It usually consisted of chicken nuggets, hot dogs, fish sticks, macaroni, and grilled cheese served with some kind of canned vegetable. Easy and quick foods but foods that lacked flavor, nutrition and variety. No that my husband is home for good we are trying to get more of a variety of foods into our childrens diet. The new rule in our house is you eat what is served and no more different meals for the kids. There are some exceptions to this rule though like I don't expect my kids to eat chili (its way to spicy), french onion soup (not enough flavor or substance for their bellies) or our date night meals.

When it comes to food and children the old saying "Lead by example" is very, very true. If your children see you eating different foods especially meats and vegetables and see that you like them you will find that they will enjoy eating it too. So while people may think I am crazy for serving my kids certain foods it makes cooking a whole lot easier. My 2 and 4 year old both love grilled zucchini, steamed broccoli, tacos, pot roast and many other "adult" foods.

The newest meal to add to their menus is the one we had last night...Smoked Sausage Soup. They loved it even with the kale in the soup. I got a ton of "Good Soup, Mommy!'s" from around the dinner table last night. It is a good feeling to know that they are eating healthy and filling foods that don't take a fight to get into their bellies.