Easy Local Eating Habits for Kids

KIMBERLY CONAGHAN, NW Michigan Local Food Coordinator

From dietary recommendations to enticing picky eaters, there’s no shortage of information on how to get your kids interested in food. Navigating the plethora of information can be an overwhelming challenge for already time-strapped parents. But teaching healthy local eating habits can be easy, especially if you pick low-hanging fruit. Strategy is key.

PICK SIX - Find your kid’s favorite crunchy veggies, breads, fresh fruits and cheeses that you can commit to always buying locally. Have your child be in charge of picking the items out and talk to them about where the products are from as you put them away.

ONE A DAY - Talk about at least one local product that is incorporated into your meals each day (butter counts!). For an extra challenge, do this at every meal or snack.

THINK DRINKS - In addition to water, Michigan produced milk, juice, and herbal teas are great options to keep the local conversation going.

‘JUST SAY NO’ TO THE KID’S MENU - Choose locally-focused restaurants and skip the kid’s menu altogether. Appetizers and small plates are a great way to explore new flavors with your little one.

Implement a few of these strategies, and you might just end up raising a little locavore!

Kimberly’s 6 Local Picks

1. Naturally Nutty Butter Toffee Peanut Butter

2. Cooper Family Spreads Raspberry Jam

3. Stone House Bread Sliced White Bread

4. Local Carrots from Blackbird Gardens

5. Local Apples from Farmer White’s

6. Northern Natural Roasted Red Pepper Hummus