A balanced diet contains an adequate amount of all the nutrients required by the body to grow, remain healthy and be disease-free. In addition, a healthy, balanced diet provides the necessary energy requirement, protects against vitamin, mineral, and other nutritional deficiencies, and builds up immunity.

When feeling hungry, kids can opt for fruits, vegetables with dip (like hummus or yogurt), or whole-grain crackers instead of candy or chips.

Create a Colorful Plate: When putting together meals, kids can aim to fill their plates with a variety of colors from different fruits and vegetables. This makes meals more appealing and balances nutrients.

Help in the Kitchen: Kids can ask to help with meal prep or cooking. Simple tasks like washing vegetables, stirring mixtures, or measuring ingredients can engage them and help them learn about healthy foods.

Try New Foods: Kids can set a goal to try one new fruit or vegetable each week. This encourages exploration and expands their palate.

Drink Water: Kids can make a habit of drinking water throughout the day, especially when they're thirsty. They can carry a water bottle to school or activities as a reminder.

Pack Healthy Lunches: If they pack their lunches, kids can choose whole-grain bread, lean proteins (like turkey or hummus), and colorful veggies. They can even include a piece of fruit for dessert.

Read Labels: When shopping with parents, kids can learn to read food labels to make healthier choices. They can identify whole ingredients and keep an eye on sugar content.

Join in Family Meal Times: Kids can encourage their families to sit down for meals together, where healthy eating habits can be modeled and discussed.

Set Fun Challenges: Kids can team up with friends or family to create a “healthy eating challenge,” where they try to eat balanced meals or new healthy recipes each week.

Grow a Garden: If possible, kids can start a small garden or even just a pot of herbs. Growing their vegetables and herbs can increase their interest in eating healthy.