For busy parents and caregivers, it can sometimes feel like an added struggle to get our kiddos eating healthfully and adventurously. As tempting as we make our meals, and as cleverly as we hide those veggies, it can be exhausting trying to get our kids engaged with the food they eat. Well, what if I told you there was an elegant end to the Dinner Wars? Why don’t you pass the mixing bowl or cutting board over to your little one? 

My guest this week is my dear friend Diana Rice. She runs the show at The Baby Steps Dietician blog, and is also involved in Kids Cook Monday. Diana is extremely passionate about getting kids involved in the cooking process. Now, I know what you might be thinking. It’s messy! I’d never trust my toddler with a cutting knife! What’s great about Diana’s approach is that she has easy and (mostly) mess free methods that will engage your children without sacrificing your kitchen. Yes, there might be a Blueberry Smoothie Incident or two (listen for more details,) but the rewards are great. Inspire your children to seek out new flavors and foods with Diana’s simple tips and tricks. Stay tuned for two great recipes: Cheesy Zucchini Black Bean Skillet, and my Hearty Barley Salad with Cucumber, Tomato, and Arugula. 

 

Show Highlights:

 

• Diana shares how her passion for cooking with children has grown. 
• The documented beneficial effects of cooking with children. 
• Build a more nutritious diet later in life by developing cooking skills. 
• An application for real world math and science in the kitchen. 
• What are the ages and stages for cooking with your children? Diana gives you all the culinary milestones. 
• Empowering our children by encouraging them to participate in something the entire family can enjoy. 
• Important tips for knife safety—use the bear claw method! 
• Embrace the kids cooking war stories, and share a few! 
• How to get Kids Cook Mondays in your child’s school.
• Diana shares her favorite cookbooks for parents and caregivers. 
• Clever ideas for adapting recipes to your children’s taste. 

 

Links

Diana’s Website

http://dianakrice.com/

Kids Cook Monday

http://www.thekidscookmonday.org/

Family Dinner Date Newsletter

http://www.thekidscookmonday.org/family-dinner-date-newsletter/

Join the Podcast Posse

https://www.lizshealthytable.com/podcast/