Search
Close this search box.

Explore nutrition tips, kids’ meal plans, kids’ activities, recipes and more from pediatric nutritionist, Melissa Halas, MA, RDN, CDE.

Hey Parents… Eat Your Fruit and Veggies Too!

Print & Share
Hey Parents… Eat Your Fruit and Veggies Too!

Studies have shown that children will mimic what their parents eat, so the key to change
is up to you. “Be a good role model by eating your fruits and veggies, too! Actions speak louder than words, and your kids are watching you!” reports Liz Ward, MS, RD and author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Feeding Your Baby and Toddler.

One recent study revealed that the act of simply asking children if they would like fruit or fruit juice with their lunch made the children more receptive to taking a serving of fruit with their meal. In fact, 30 percent more kids selected a fruit option with their lunch when merely prompted. Perhaps, simply offering more fruit and vegetables to your children at home would escalate their intake of these nutritious foods. Give it a try! Consider asking questions such as “would you like a sliced apple with your lunch?” or “what vegetables should we have for dinner?”

To begin eating a colorful diet at home, start by encouraging your family to share a list of any fruits and/or vegetables that they enjoy or are willing to try. Plan menus around the fruit and vegetable options that you discuss together. Try finding new and interesting ways to eat fruits and veggies.  Learn more by reading Getting Your Child to Like Fruit and Veggies Again and by visiting our featured nutrition experts tricks and tips.

Sign Up For Our Newsletter!

Similar Articles You May Like...

About the Author

Picture of Kate Scarlata, RD, LDN

Kate Scarlata, RD, LDN

Kate is a registered and licensed dietitian with over 25 years of experience in the nutrition and wellness field. She works as a private practice dietitian in the Greater Boston area, providing nutrition consultation for a variety of health conditions, weight management, and helping people eat more healthfully. She is the author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Eating Well with IBS and the coauthor of the book, Real People Need Real Food: A Guide to Healthy Eating for Families Living in a Fast Food World.

Sign Up Today

Sign up for our newsletter and get realistic, easy & tasty ways to eat healthy. Plus get free fun kids' activities!​

Get our free guide Say “No” to Food Rewards when you join.