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Cooking Light for Kids

Introducing your kids to light and healthful home-cooked meals is easier when regular family meals are implemented. According to KidsHealth.org, kids who eat regular family meals are more likely to indulge in fruits, vegetables and grains. Here, you'll learn what types of foods should be served for each meal and how to cook light and exciting meals that your kids won't turn their nose up to.

  1. Breakfast

    • A proper breakfast will give your kids the essential energy to get through their school day and focus on their lesson. With that said, you should steer clear of sending your little ones off to school with a tummy full of sugary cereals and Pop Tarts. Create a light and nutritious breakfast for your little one by nixing the sausage, bacon, sugar, cream cheese and butter overload. Scramble one egg adding just a bit of salt and pepper. Next, smear 1 tbsp. of organic peanut butter on one slice of wheat toast. Serve up accompanied with a glass of orange juice. This breakfast is high in fiber, protein and vitamin C and under 300 calories.

    Lunch

    • As lunch is often closely followed by a mid-afternoon snack, it should be the lightest meal of the day. If your children aren't opposed to vegetables, consider making them a chicken Caesar salad by grilling a small piece of chicken breast, slicing lengthwise and placing atop a bed of lettuce. However, if you're kids are like most, they will scoff at the mere sight of a salad. If your child fits the bill, make them a grilled chicken sandwich by grilling a small piece of chicken breast and placing on wheat bread. Top the sandwich off with a slice of their favorite low-fat cheese, a small shred of lettuce and a teaspoon of ranch dressing to provide moisture. Serve alongside baby carrots.

    Dinner

    • Your family's dinner plates should be divided into four equal sections. Starches account for one section, protein accounts for another and vegetables take up two sections. Most kids are fussy eaters and will likely have a strong objection to their plate being "overloaded" with veggies. Put creativity to in action by creating a light and colorful meal that will have your kids scraping their plates clean. Heat up a box of brown rice and grill a small piece of white meat. While the protein and starch are cooking, work on your vegetables section by creating a vibrant salad that consists of lettuce, tomatoes, corn and red, green and yellow peppers; drizzle with olive oil.

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