Happy Plates, Happy Kids: Thanksgiving Dinner with Picky Eaters
Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, a big meal. But for families with selective eaters, the holiday feast can be a challenge. Cara, a speech therapist at Columbia Pediatric Therapy, offers helpful tips to make Thanksgiving enjoyable for everyone—especially the kids. Here's how to create "Happy Plates and Happy Kids" during this festive season.
1. Involve Kids in Meal Prep
One way to encourage kids to try new foods is to let them help with meal preparation. Thanksgiving introduces many dishes that may be unfamiliar, so giving children hands-on experience can make them more comfortable.
Easy tasks for kids: Let them pour ingredients, stir mixtures, or assemble a veggie plate for appetizers.
Why it works: Participating in the process helps kids feel more connected to the food, increasing their willingness to taste it.
2. Create Kid-Friendly Options
Having familiar foods on the table can make kids feel at ease. While Thanksgiving is often about tradition, it's okay to adapt the menu to include dishes your child enjoys.
Popular kid-friendly options: Mac and cheese or even chicken nuggets as substitutes for turkey.
Pro tip: Offer a variety of dips like ketchup or gravy to make new foods more appealing.
3. Encourage, Don’t Pressure
Mealtimes should be a no-pressure zone, especially during Thanksgiving. Avoid forcing kids to eat anything they're not ready to try. Instead:
Serve small portions for tasting: Place a little of everything on their plate without expecting them to finish it.
Celebrate their efforts: Praise kids for trying new foods, even if it’s just a small taste.
4. Keep Mealtimes Short and Sweet
Kids often have shorter attention spans for meals. Don’t stress if they don’t want to linger at the table. For adults who want to enjoy a longer dinner, have a post-meal activity ready for the kids.
Fun ideas: Provide coloring sheets or encourage them to draw what they ate.
Wrapping Up
With a little preparation and flexibility, Thanksgiving can be a joyful experience for everyone in the family. Remember, the goal is to create a happy, low-stress environment where kids feel encouraged to try new things without pressure. Here’s to happy plates and even happier kids this holiday season!