Cutting food into fun shapes encourages kids to eat healthy

POLOKWANE – According to Chef Molatelo Malatji, cutting food into fun shapes can make a significant difference in encouraging kids to eat healthy.

“Shaping children’s food makes it look more appealing and appetizing,” Malatji told the Polokwane Observer.

Malatji explained that even fruits like watermelon can be made more appealing to kids when cut into fun shapes. “It might look like a lot of work, but it only takes a minute to do. Fruits and veggies can be cut into shapes easily using small cookie cutters or containers with fun shapes.”

Malatji shared some tips on how to cut food into fun shapes. “Start by cutting fruits and veggies horizontally into slices. Use small cookie cutters or containers to create fun shapes. For firm veggies like carrots and radishes, cookie cutters work best.”

Some veggies that work well when cut into fun shapes include cucumbers, carrots, zucchini, radishes, and mushrooms. Fruits like pineapple, apples, and strawberries are also easy to work with. “Get creative and try your kid’s favorites, and you’ll see they’ll start eating their food more,” Malatji added.

Cutting food into shapes can have numerous benefits for children. It can increase the acceptability of healthy foods, making them more likely to eat food presented in a child-friendly shape. Food in fun shapes can also be perceived as more enjoyable, and kids may prefer food that’s presented in a shape that’s congruent with its taste.

Additionally, cutting food into shapes can help toddlers develop chewing strength, while food preparation activities can help build fine motor skills and increase confidence. By making food fun and engaging, parents can encourage their kids to develop healthy eating habits from a young age.