Want your kids to be healthy? Pull out the pots and pans. Health Canada research consistently shows that children and teens who prepare food in the home, and dine regularly with their families, develop good eating habits. The even better news is: those good habits last for life.

Nutrition starts at home.

First, when parents set a good example by eating a balanced diet of fresh, unprocessed food. And second, when parents involve their kids in the whole process—food shopping, produce/ingredient selection, meal planning, food prep and cooking. A visit to a local farm or morning at the town farmers’ market, or watching a chef show on TV, are positive reinforcements, too. Along the way, kids will organically learn about where their food comes from, what constitutes a nutritious choice and why, and that whole foods can not only taste delicious, but give us energy and make us feel great.

Walk the middle line.

It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. So don’t get the impression you need to pull on an apron and spend three hours in the kitchen every day. Make it fun and do what you can. An easy way to get more kitchen time is to make a bulk meal together on the weekend, then freeze it in family-size portions and reheat for quick weeknight dinners. Help children fill their school lunch boxes the night before when there’s no time pressure, and have lots of different healthy choices in the fridge and cupboard.

Choose Creamers.

When it comes to cooking with kids, Little Potatoes are a good choice. Potatoes are vegetables, so part of the daily recommended 4 to 6 servings, and extremely nutritious. Mild and creamy, they appeal to little ones’ palates. They can be dressed up, dressed down or eaten simply with a little salt, pepper and butter. They can also be prepared quickly, in under 15 minutes, to accommodate short attention spans.

Try some of our kid-friendly recipes for Little Creamers on our Pinterest page or search our website for recipes with the Little Chef Approved stamp. Get cooking today and develop outstanding eating habits for life—for everyone in the family.