The Picky Eater Ten Commandments

As a mother of seven kids, I have been around the block and back with picky eaters. I’ve tried everything from sneaking in the veggie puree to playing the choo choo game. But finally, I have figured out that there are some basic truths on dealing with picky eaters. And just as Moses received the stone tablets on top of Mt. Sinai, I too, have received the legendary ten commandments of picky eaters from on top of a mountain of spinach puree, whole-wheat pasta, and carrot sticks. And I am sharing them with you. So back away from that golden calf of confusion and follow these ten basic principles to end the pickiness forever.

Thou shalt never underestimate the power of dessert.
For a long time I didn’t want to admit it. I resisted the power of the chocolate cake and the oatmeal cookie. But I finally realized that there is true power in dessert. If a child knows they have to mow through a broccoli salad to get to a fresh-from-the-oven blondie that is filling the kitchen with a succulent aroma, then they will usually suck it up and follow through. Desserts hold power. Use them wisely.

Thou shalt honor thy health and the health of thy children.
Health always comes first when it comes to kids. If they know they eventually they will get some French fries and chicken nuggets, then they can usually become pretty demanding. Kids need to know that healthy meals are non-negotiable. Don’t compromise on health just to get your kids to eat something. There are tons of recipes out there for healthy food that is tasty and delicious so eliminate the junk food

Thou shalt not deceive thy children with sneaky food.
I was one of the sneakiest moms on the planet. I would put carrot puree in spaghetti sauce, spinach puree in stews, and hide sea vegetables in my bean burgers. I also advised many moms to do likewise. The problem I eventually came across as my kids grew older is that this type of sneakiness removes kids away from delicious foods in their whole form. They will never appreciate veggies for what they truly are because they are taught to expect a diet of unusual tasting soups, burgers, and pizzas. I have begun teaching my kids a healthy respect for veggies and am pleasantly surprised at the outcome!

Thou shalt bring thy children into the kitchen.
Kids today are soooo removed from the food process. Many of them here phrases everyday such as, “get out of the kitchen. I’ll call you when it’s done.” Fuggetaboutit! Kid need to be in the kitchen. Bring them in, teach them how to prepare food, how to chop, slice, sautee, and bake. I’ve found that only adults think cooking is drudgery. Kids see it for what it is meant to be—fun and games. The more you get them involved in food preparation, the less likely you will have picky eaters. So bring them in the kitchen. Blast the music, turn on the griddle, and make it a party!

Thou shalt not plan meals nor shop for food alone.