Children who are given the opportunity to be involved in meal preparation are more likely to understand basic nutritional concepts that will form a foundation for the rest of their lives, according to a leading Australian sports dietitian.

Kerry Leech, who works with The Australian Netball Diamonds, said parents should look for ways to educate children about the food they eat from an early age.

“Young minds absorb information quickly and if parents and caregivers actively involve children in shopping and food preparation, they will have a much better understanding about which foods they need to eat on a daily basis,” she said.

“If a young child is involved the cooking process, they will be excited to eat the results of their hard work."

“Encourage children to help in planning a menus and shopping, and give them simple cooking tasks they can manage safely such as chopping and stirring."

“This will help them develop a much keener appreciation for their food.” Ms Leech said parents and caregivers should look for products that can help children learn how to balance their diet."

“For example, using portion controlled foods like San Remo’s Traditional Egg Pasta nests can help children learn what one serve of grain based food looks like,” she said.

“Children can help to count out how many pasta portions are required for the family meal which can be a great way to teach children about balancing their diet."

“Portion controlled products are not about limiting the amount of food children eat, but rather helping to ensure they eat enough of the right foods.” Ms Leech said grain based carbohydrates, like pasta and rice, were essential
for growing bodies.

“It is important that children understand what their bodies need to remain healthy and strong,” she said.

“Pasta is a great meal option for children. It is rich in grain based carbohydrates which are essential for a healthy body and digestive system and it tastes great too."

“One of its advantages is that vegetables and protein can be incorporated into meals in a more subtle way."

“Piles of vegetables sitting on a plate can be overwhelming for children, bur when pureed or cooked as part of a sauce they are much less obvious.”

Kerry Leech is one of Australia’s leading sports dietitians. She works with the Australian Netball Diamonds and is a partner at Eat Smart Nutrition Consultants in Brisbane. She is also a consultant to the Queensland
Academy of Sport, the Queensland Firebirds and Brisbane Roar.