The script for what's healthy eating for kids is constantly being rewritten. Kids today are exposed to more diverse foods than ever, and inevitably, some of the healthiest are being overlooked. Sure, you know to serve those "superfoods" like blueberries, sweet potatoes and yogurt. But there are a few superfoods that fly under the radar when it comes to kids. Did you know that babies as young as six months old can reap the health benefits of fish? A little chunk light tuna or canned salmon can be mashed or pureed so that babies' brains can get all those healthful omega-3s and DHA for brain development. The sooner you introduce fish, the better the chance your child will become a seafood lover for life. If your child likes fish sticks or popcorn shrimp but won't branch out for other ocean goodies, then ease into it with broiled options of his favorites, like peel and eat shrimp and steamed crab claws.
Sushi doesn't seem like a child-friendly option, but some of the vegetarian and cooked options can be ideal to introduce kids to fun, tasty food. If your child has a taste for ethnic foods, such as Chinese and Mexican entrees, then explore those foods at home as well. Spicy foods are ones that parents sometimes overlook, but you'd be surprised how many kids will gobble them up. The World Snacks series of board books can give your child further insight into some of those mysterious menu items. With fun titles like Yum Yum Dim Sum and First Book of Sushi, clever rhymes and mouthwatering illustrations introduce kids to foods like tostadas, chow mein and tamago. After checking out these great books, you can then show your child what they look like in person as you either prepare them at home or visit your favorite restaurant.