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The holiday season is a time for family, fun, and of course, delicious food. But with all the cookies, candies, and festive treats around, it can be tough for parents to ensure their kids are still eating healthy. As much as we love indulging, it’s important to find a healthy balance that keeps everyone feeling good.
As a parent, how do you keep your kids’ health in check while still letting them enjoy the celebrations? Here are some practical tips to make sure your child stays healthy during the holidays – without missing out on the fun.
If you’re concerned about your kids gravitating toward processed foods during holiday festivities, one of the best things you can do is feed them a nutrient-dense meal beforehand. A filling, nutritious meal can help curb those sugar cravings, so they’re less likely to reach for the junk food at parties.
Little Lunches offers well-balanced recipes, personalized meal plans and snack ideas that make feeding your kids easy and healthy. With weekly meal suggestions, grocery lists, and expert advice from our dietitians, you can feel confident knowing your kids are eating right—even during the busy holiday season.
Holiday snacks can be fun, but that doesn’t mean they need to be all sugar and processed foods. Try swapping in healthy snacks that your kids will actually enjoy, like fruit and veggie "snowmen", yogurt parfaits, or dried fruit and nuts. These are not only festive but packed with nutrients.
If you’re worried about your kids having too many sugary treats, try offering these healthy snacks alongside the cookies or candies. This way, they get a little of what they want while still eating things that fuel their body.
Yes, the holiday cookies are hard to resist, but it’s all about balance. Instead of feeling like you have to say "no" to every treat, focus on keeping your meals nutrient-dense. Add more fruits, veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains into your meals so that even if your kids enjoy a sweet treat, they’re still getting a good amount of healthy food throughout the day.
If your child has a piece of candy at a party, try to make sure their next meal contains veggies and lean protein to balance things out.
One of the best ways to teach your kids healthy eating habits is by involving them in the cooking process. Instead of just giving them a healthy snack or meal, get them to help prepare it. They’re more likely to try new foods when they’ve helped create them.
It doesn’t have to be complicated. Have your kids help wash vegetables, mix ingredients for healthy granola, or make fun food art with fruits and vegetables. This can help create positive associations around nutritious foods so your children look back at the holidays on those beautiful memories with you around foods that are good for them.
It’s important to be flexible during the holidays. No one is perfect, and the holidays are about enjoying time with family and making memories. If your child has a bit of extra sugar or eats something that’s not part of the usual healthy routine, don’t stress. It’s all about balance, and the key is moderation.
Try not to make food a source of stress. The holidays are a time to relax, so keep your approach positive and teach your kids how to make healthy choices without guilt or restriction.
Having a routine around meals, especially during the holidays, can help reduce stress. If your kids know when to expect their meals and snacks, they’re less likely to overeat or become too fixated on the holiday treats. That said, don’t forget to add in the fun! Try creating festive meals or doing family meal prep to get everyone involved.
A good routine around meal times and a little bit of creativity goes a long way in making healthy eating enjoyable, even when there’s extra temptation around.
The holiday season is all about balance. Let your kids enjoy the festive treats, but help them maintain a healthy routine with plenty of nutritious meals and snacks. With a little planning and the right tools, like Little Lunches, you can help your kids eat well and have fun.
Happy holidays, and here’s to a healthy, happy season for your whole family!
By: Jessica Facussé, co-founder of Little Lunches
Reviewed by: Vivian Castillo, MS, RD, CNSC
3 weeks ago