They want to eat: Peanut butter and fluff. Cupcakes with squiggles. Zero veggies.

You want them to eat: Turkey on whole wheat. An apple. Pretzels.

After dealing with back-to-school battles over homework and bedtime, many moms would rather surrender than fight over what kids eat (or throw away) in the school cafeteria. The good news: It's easier than ever to think outside the lunch box when it comes to food. It doesn't have to be a choice between what's good for your kids and what's fun to eat.

Whether he gets struck by the hunger bug at 2 a.m. or you end up in bumper to bumper traffic on the way home from work, there will be times when your teen has to fend for himself for dinner. Sure, he could just grab two slices of bread and some peanut butter and jelly, but that's not going to keep him satiated for long, nor is it very healthy. Instead, give him a repertoire of recipes he can use as his go-to when he needs to eat something fast.

African Recipes

Peanut Sauce Dish

1 onion
2 tomatoes
1 small eggplant
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup smooth peanut butter
1/4 cup water

Midnight Feast

Materials

• Feast food

This activity has to be done on a weekend or vacation when the family doesn't have to wake up for school or work.

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Lunch Box Builder

Get started with the Healthy Lunch Box Builder!

For decades when parents and educators discussed learning and education, the focus was on academics and how well a child performs in school and tests. The concept of focusing on social skills is still reasonably new, yet it is equally important, and some may argue more.

More: 30 Mindfulness Activities for Kids

Feed Me

Time

• 5 to 10 minutes

Materials

• Finger food

Directions

1. When your baby is eating finger food, say, "Can I have some?" and guide a hand to your mouth.
2. Eat in an exaggerated and playful manner as you enjoy the gesture of sharing.

Extensions

• Take turns feeding each other.
• Pretend to feed toy animals or dolls.

The recent Facebook whistleblower scandal in 2021 revealed that Facebook had tons of research that social media platforms like Instagram are toxic to the mental health of kids and teens. The whistleblower documents discussed how photo sharing apps like Instagram can negatively impact teens’ body image and self-esteem. Recently, the U.S.

Setting the Table

 
Materials

• Plates
• Silverware
• Napkins
• Glasses

Directions

10 High-Iron Foods Kids Love

This list by Sue Kolski, R.D. is brought to you by drkoop.com.
Here are some great high-iron food suggestions for your family: