If you have read my past blogs you know that I strive to help kids and families learn healthy eating habits and make nutritious food choices. Getting kids to try new and healthy foods is often a difficult task. I have developed a very simple rating scale that can be used by the most picky eaters and their families. If used correctly with adult discussion, it can teach kids that it may take many times of trying a new food before it becomes a “Big Yum!” The scale encourages parents to continue to offer nutritious options in a positive way; and it may remind them that kids have their own thoughts and opinions about foods – and that is okay. If a child does not like a food they have tried, instead saying “I don’t like it” (which is a bit negative) your child’s option is to circle “No Yum Yet.” This is more positive and encourages the child to try that food again later.

This was given to me by a friend who is using the rating scale with her little boys.  I am very impressed that that this little guy gave beets a “Big Yum!”  Hopefully he will try salmon burgers again….