Parents need to be clever about incorporating nutritious foods into family meals. Start the day with a “brain fueled” breakfast. Give children choices and only offer those with high nutritive value. Breakfast smoothies with milk or yogurt, fruit, honey, wheat germ and whole wheat toast or Yogurt parfaits made with fruit and granola will keep them on their toes until lunch. Sprinkle cereal with wheat germ, nuts, raisins, or other fruit. Even leftover pizza is better than fast food; add extra cheese for more nutritive value.
Make meals attractive and interesting by cutting foods in interesting shapes; serve fruit and vegetables with toothpicks. Let the children serve themselves, research shows that preschoolers do a better job controlling portions when they serve themselves. Turn off the television and make meals a place for good conversation.