- Make it delicious. This may sound obvious, but kid’s palates are often overlooked. Children usually prefer more simple flavors, but that doesn’t mean bland. Try offering a variety of dipping sauces for picky kids. One option is grilled chicken strips with Kraft® light ranch dressing, light dijonaise (Kraft® light mayonnaise mixed with a dab of Grey Poupon®), Bulls-Eye® BBQ sauce or a sweeter option: Kraft® fat free raspberry vinaigrette. Pair entrees with a variety of veggies kids can dip in the same sauces or eat alone.
- Stick with the familiar. Children like recognizable foods, most of which can undergo small changes to improve nutrition. Pair well loved items like Kraft® Macaroni & Cheese with a fruit or vegetable side. Replace fried items with their healthier baked versions. Swap refined grain items with their whole grain counterparts like whole wheat bread, whole grain buns and brown rice.
Consider offering some adult meals in children’s sizes. Older kids love to eat the same thing as mom or dad. Offer a child-size portion of a few of your popular healthier menu items and kids will love the feeling of being more “grown up”.
Don’t forget about dessert. Try adding more fruit and lower fat options to the kid’s dessert choices. Frozen 100% fruit pops are a fun idea. Sugar free Jell-O® parfaits with fruit and low fat yogurt are also loved by kids and parent-approved.
Train the staff to be “kid friendly”. It is particularly helpful if the staff can offer to bring the kid’s meal before the rest of the food. Antsy, hungry kids can frustrate parents (and other guests). Sending out the kid’s meals early can help prevent unruly tantrums!
Promote your new menu. Local parent clubs and organizations love to recommend great family friendly restaurants with healthy options. Reach out to your local paper and online parenting communities. Most will gladly share the news of your fun and nutritious kid’s meals makeover.
For more information on catering to kids go to kraftfoodservice.com/school
