HUNTSVILLE LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2024 | 11
dining out
Adults understand that each restaurant visit presents an opportunity to try something new . North America is a true melting pot , and people from all over the world brought their customs , cultures and food to the continent .
One can pull up a map of his or her immediate area and likely find restaurants offering Italian , Chinese , Greek , Thai , Eastern Mediterranean , and Mexican foods . Expand the radius further , and there is bound to be a bevy of additional offerings as well . These restaurants bode well for adventurous diners who like to try different flavors . But what about children who tend to be more picky with food ? Here are some handy tips for introducing kids to new foods when dining out .
— Begin with a taste . Parents should realize it can take a while before kids are willing to eat new foods . According to Judy Delaware , an occupational therapist , feeding specialist , and co-founder of Feeding Littles , kids often prefer textures and tastes they have had before . It can take anywhere from 10 to 15 exposures to certain foods before a child will give it a shot . When dining out , don ’ t order an entire meal and expect a child to eat it . Rather , adults can offer a bite or two of their own meals to try .
— Read the menu together . Let the child learn about the food descriptions and what is in each dish rather than describing the dish as tasty or not . Try to be descriptive when characterizing dishes , using phrases such as “ this is creamy ” or “ this is crunchy .” Curiosity may make kids more inclined to try something new .
— Be a role model . Kids often mimic their parents ’ behaviors . By trying new foods themselves rather than eating the same thing over and over again , parents can help set a precedent .
— Get hands on . Let kids explore and “ play ” with foods at home to familiarize themselves with the textures , looks and smells of different ingredients . Kids also can go shopping with adults to become acquainted with even more offerings . A study from researchers at the University of Eastern Finland found kindergartners who had hands-on time with fruits and vegetables in their classrooms were more likely to choose these foods from a snack buffet than those who had no such interactions .
— Pair unfamiliar foods with favorites . Slowly introduce children to foods at restaurants . For example , rotate new foods so that carrots are accompanying the chicken tenders this time , and perhaps next time the side dish will be mandarin oranges . Add new toppings to pizza . Eventually kids may be more adventurous .
— Time it right . Most parents know it is hard to get kids to be cooperative if they are tired or especially hungry . Pick smart times to introduce new foods , such as after naps or when going out to breakfast , as kids will be rested and breakfast foods can be less intimidating .
Children can slowly grow accustomed to trying new foods when dining out , helping entire families expand their restaurant options .
HUNTSVILLE LIVING | SEPTEMBER 2024 | 11