In a world filled with colorful distractions and tempting treats, getting children to embrace leafy vegetables might seem like a daunting task for parents. However, instilling healthy eating habits from a young age is crucial for their overall well-being. The vibrant world of leafy greens is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treasure trove of essential nutrients.
Spinach, moringa leaves, pea leaves, etc contain vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, iron, and calcium, all of which are crucial for good eye health, growth and development of children, proper brain function, and a healthy immune system, among other myriads of health benefits. Key micronutrients like beta carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin are found in abundance in green leafy vegetables. They help in repairing various cells in our body and improve eye vision. By incorporating a few simple tricks, parents can make the journey of introducing leafy vegetables an enjoyable and positive experience for children. Try out these tips:
Spinach rolls
Rolls are a favourite snack for children. You can prepare these rolls with homemade chappatis or tortillas bought from shops. If you add enough cheese and beaten eggs while making the filling for rolls, the kids won’t even feel they are having leafy vegetables. You can add some masala and the egg and cook spinach well before adding cheese and making the rolls. Now serve these delicious spinach rolls as a tasty and visually appealing snack.
Pancakes
Many times, you might have noticed children carefully pick leafy green ingredients out of dishes and throw them away before having the food. The delicious pancake made out of spinach is meant for them.
Preparation
Put maida (refined wheat flour) and chopped spinach into a mixer
Pour milk and grind them well
You can add eggs to make it tastier
Heat the griddle or pan and grease the inside with butter before pouring the above batter into it
The delicious pancake is ready
You can serve them to kids, pairing them with sauce or honey
These green pancakes, the colour arising out of the healthy dose of spinach, are a great way to sneak in more veggies to your kid’s palates.
Spinach chips
Often children like items like potato chips and similar savouries that are not at all beneficial to their health. But, it's possible to prepare a different snack with the same taste and flavor that the little ones love.
Preparation
In a pan, toss fresh spinach leaves with olive oil, salt and oregano (if needed)
Arrange the leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes in an oven or until the edges are crispy
Allow the spinach chips to cool before serving as a crunchy and nutritious snack
Kids couldn’t resist munching them
