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Children 10–18 years

Creative kids

Isn’t school great?

It encourages social interaction and the development of important relationships, young minds are challenged and educational ideals are developed.

Yet ask any child what they are most looking forward to at this time of year and I can guarantee the majority will answer “School Holidays”.

Encourage children to cook

For many parents this becomes a time to rack the brain for appropriate activities to keep the younger members of the family amused. Many bypass the obvious options in search for something more inventive.

These holidays think practically. One such option is getting kids involved in preparing the evening meal or alternatively items of food for their lunches. Not only does this allow time with your children it gives them a sense of achievement and an opportunity to show their individual flair, all the while they are learning valuable skills that will remain useful for the rest of their life.

Simple activities involving children

Weekends are an ideal time to take up this opportunity, with more time available within a less stressed environment. Instead of ordering takeaways, let the kids into the kitchen!

  • Home made burgers and wedges are always a popular option and suits even the pickiest appetite, as everyone can assemble their own design.
  • Pizza is quick and convenient as is an ideal way to incorporate the use of different fruits and vegetable options
  • Soup accompanied by cheese on toast, mousetraps or scones
  • Pancakes with fruit and yoghurt for an early morning treat
  • Toasted sandwiches
  • Fruit muffins
  • Omelettes or scrambled eggs on toast
  • Frittatas are an ideal way to use any left-overs

Also use the weekends and holidays to teach children where food comes from

  • Visit farmers markets for local products and crafts
  • Take them to supermarkets to buy food and count out fruits and vegetables
  • Visit garden centres and encourage them to grow pots of herbs or start a vegetable garden
  • Nurture children’s talents to be creative and make things as fostering creativity builds self esteem and their confidence, broadens their knowledge, improves their hand: eye co-ordination and aids concentration and mental health.

If you would like some simple recipes visit our recipe section or contact Lea for more ideas.

About the author View all

Lea Stening

Lea is one of New Zealand’s leading paediatric dietitians and also specialises in Sports Nutrition. She has specialised in Paediatric Nutrition for 31 years and in 1985 was the first paediatric dietitian to enter private practice in New Zealand. Lea helps families through her private consultations, public lectures, newspaper and magazine articles as well as television and radio interviews. Read more »

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