Family Meal Plans for Picky Eaters

Let’s face it mealtimes can feel like a battleground when you have picky eaters at the table. From complaints about broccoli to the endless requests for plain pasta, trying to please everyone can quickly become exhausting. But it doesn’t have to be this way! With a little creativity and the right meal plan and approach, you can make family meals stress-free and enjoyable for everyone, even the pickiest eaters.

At MealPlanet, we believe in meals that bring families together. Here are some tips to create harmony at the dinner table.

Understanding Picky Eaters

Picky eating is a common phase for many children, but it can be frustrating for parents trying to ensure their kids receive balanced nutrition. Understanding why a child might be picky can help you address the issue more effectively. Children might be sensitive to certain textures, flavors, or even the appearance of food. It’s important to remember that patience and persistence are key.

Tips to handle Picky Eaters

1| Get the Kids Involved in the Process

One way to manage picky eaters is to involve them in the meal planning process. Encourage your children to choose one or two dishes they enjoy and incorporate these into your weekly meal plan. This involvement can make them more enthusiastic about mealtime and more willing to try new foods.

Picky eaters often resist unfamiliar foods, but involving them in choosing their dishes from their meal plan can make them more willing to try new things.

2| Offer Variety and Choices

Children often feel more in control when they’re given options. Offering a variety of meals ensures there’s something for everyone at the table. When planning meals, aim for a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, along with a variety of fruits and vegetables. This ensures that everyone gets the necessary nutrients, and the variety can make meals more appealing. Give your kids some control over their meals by offering choices. This could mean letting them choose between two different vegetables or deciding on the main protein for dinner. Providing options can make children feel more involved and less resistant to trying new foods.

• The Rule of Three: Serve one item they love, one they might like, and one they’re unfamiliar with. Over time, this approach can help expand their palate.
• Repeat Exposure: Sometimes it takes multiple tries before a child accepts a new food. Don’t give up after one rejection!

3| Keep Mealtimes Positive

Pressure and stress at the dinner table often backfire. Instead, create a relaxed and enjoyable environment where kids feel encouraged to explore new foods.

• Be Patient: Avoid forcing or bribing kids to eat—it can create negative associations with food.
• Set a Good Example: When kids see you enjoying a variety of healthy foods, they’re more likely to follow suit.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Even a small bite of something new is a step in the right direction!

 4| Encouraging Healthy Eating Habits

Incorporating healthy eating habits into your family’s routine can have long-lasting benefits. Children often mimic the behaviors of their parents. Show enthusiasm for trying new foods and maintaining a balanced diet, and your children may follow suit. Celebrate small victories when your child tries new foods or finishes their meal. Positive reinforcement can motivate them to continue exploring new dishes.

You can find meal plans designed to please every palate on MealPlanet. With options for kids and adults alike, you can ensure balanced meals that are both tasty and stress-free.

Say goodbye to mealtime struggles and hello to delicious, family-approved meals. Explore our family-friendly plans today.