Getting the kids involved in meal planning might sound like a bit of a challenge, but it's easier (and more fun) than you might think. Not only does it help take the stress out of mealtimes, but it also makes them more excited about eating healthily and trying new foods.
By the end of this post, you'll have a bunch of simple, fun ways to get the whole family into the kitchen and into the meal-planning process. (Link to main meal planning post)
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🤔 Why Involve The Kids In Meal Planning?
You might be wondering,
"Why bother getting the kids involved, it's easier to just do it myself!"
Well, there are plenty of reasons! First of all, it makes mealtimes a lot more enjoyable when everyone has a say in what's on the table. Plus, it helps kids feel like they're part of the team, and when they've helped choose the meals, they're often more excited to eat what's been cooked.
It's also a sneaky way to encourage healthier food choices and teach them important skills for later in life - like how to plan meals, shop for ingredients, and even prepare food in the kitchen.
🖊️ Start With A Family Meal Planning Session
Set aside a bit of time - say, every Sunday - to sit down as a family and plan out the week's meals.
This doesn't have to be a long, drawn-out process; even 15 minutes will do the trick. Start by asking the kids what meals they'd like to have during the week.
Do they fancy a certain dinner? Have they got any ideas for lunches or snacks?
Another good one is to ask them do they prefer choice A or choice B?
It's a great way to get them excited about food, and it'll make the whole meal-planning process feel less like a chore and more like a family activity.
🌮 Make It Fun With A "Theme Night"
If you really want to get the kids involved, create themed nights. It could be something simple like Taco Tuesday, Pizza Friday, or Meat-Free Monday - they'll love it! We love a family fakeaway on a Saturday in our house and my Five Guys burgers & cajun fries always go down well!
The best part is you can get the kids to help choose the theme and even decide on toppings, fillings, or sides.
For example, on Taco Tuesday, let them pick from a range of toppings and fillings like beans, cheese, salsa, or guacamole. Put out some they aren't keen on, too & encourage them to try them. They'll love having the freedom to build their own meal. "Build your own wraps" is one of my son's favourites.
🧒 Give Them Age-Appropriate Jobs
Depending on their age, the kids can help with different tasks. Little ones can wash vegetables, stir things, or help set the table.
Older kids can start helping with things like chopping, following simple recipes, and helping to organise the shopping list.
It's a great way to introduce them to more kitchen skills. You don't have to start with anything too complicated - just simple jobs like cracking eggs or tearing lettuce can make a huge difference and make them feel involved!
🛒 Let Them Help With The Shopping
The shopping bit doesn't have to be a dreaded task. Turn it into a fun outing by letting the kids be part of the process.
Give them a list of things to find or let them use the smart shop scanner. Not only does it keep them busy and engaged, but it also teaches them about making choices and budgeting. Plus, they'll feel so grown up picking out their own ingredients!
🎨 Get Creative With Meal Prep
Get them involved in chopping, assembling sandwiches, or even making their own DIY pizza. For instance, another of our favourite family meals is pizza night, where everyone gets to make their own pizza with toppings of their choice. It's simple, fun, and a great way to keep everyone busy while you get dinner sorted.
🤸 Allow Flexibility In The Plan
Life happens, and sometimes you can't always stick to the meal plan. And that's completely okay!
The good thing about meal planning is that it allows for flexibility. If you or the kids suddenly decide they don't want the dish you had planned, then swap it out with one of the meals from another day, or use any leftovers instead that you may have in the freezer.
If you have time you can also cook the meal you had planned and freeze it or store it in the fridge for another day.
Are you feeling inspired to get your kids involved in meal planning? Download my family-friendly meal planner below ⬇️ and let me know how you get on!
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