I am always looking for HEALTHIER CHOICES to serve at the table for my kids, husband and I. As I was searching through my @theFITm0m Instagram newsfeed, I came across a recipe for Whole Wheat Oatmeal Pancakes on @healthfoodguide (credited through @sallysbakeblog).
I instantly knew that I wanted to try these because of how DELICIOUS they looked…
For our modifications, I diced up an apple and my oldest son helped me mix all the listed ingredients together. I then cooked it using organic coconut oil, which always proves to be the perfect greasing option for my meals. We chose to slice up bananas to put atop the bed of pancakes, followed by a dusting of powdered sugar, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
This combination reminded me of a mix between an apple cinnamon muffin and a traditional pancake with a banana’s foster treat on top.
THESE WERE THE FLUFFIEST PANCAKES I HAVE EVER MADE!
I always become a little anxious when giving my children new things that are good for them because there is a small bit of hesitation and hope that they won’t dislike it…
As my five-year-old sunk his teeth into the first bite, I asked him what he thought of the new pancake recipe. He quickly replied with, “Mom, I don’t even like these new pancakes”. I asked him why and what was wrong with them. He started to giggle and then replied, “Because I LOVE THEM! They are soooooo delicious and you can never make any other pancake again!” My one-year-old devoured TWO of them, which displayed his approval, as well!
Every time I bring a new recipe to our table, I tell everyone I encounter about it. A major reaction I get from parents is how their kids would NEVER eat anything that healthy.
THIS REACTION BAFFLES MY MIND!
Kids are a product of their environment; they become accustomed to what they are exposed to on a regular basis. You have to explain the benefits behind eating healthy to your kids and let them know that there are tasty options… And have them TRY THEM for themselves.
Many people are surprised that my kids’ first smack option is usually a piece of fruit or fresh cut vegetables that I bag up and place in the bottom of our refrigerator for them to have easily accessible…
IT IS WHAT THEY KNOW, it is what they see me doing, and it is what they hear me encouraging and explaining to them on a continual basis. I TELL THEM exactly what it is so they can know and understand what they are eating and how it is helping their bodies.
Even before a child is able to verbally reply, it is it essential to build a FOUNDATION of healthy eating and lifestyle habits within him/her. Children are our future and we need to treat them properly.
From what I have experienced, a lot of the hesitation with what kids eat lies within what the PARENTS eat or introduce them to.
I like to involve my children in the preparation of healthy meals as much as possible; as long as it safe. When they have an acting role in preparing it, they seem to enjoy it even more and become more excited to try!
Try taking baby steps with getting kids to eat healthier options; rather than giving them a bag of chips to snack on, cut up an apple and banana and have them dip it in peanut butter….
It’s never too late to start!
HAPPY EATING!
Stay Healthy,
Tara
