Meatless Monday: There are so many kid-friendly vegan and vegetarian meal options. Try anything from mac ‘n cheese to peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to bean and cheese taquitos.
Taco Tuesday: Yes, kids can get in on the taco fun, too, even if they aren’t yet up for spicy foods. Try some simple bean and cheese tacos in soft flour tortillas, or a veggie taco filled with stir-fried cauliflower. Guacamole tacos are pleasing to even the pickiest of eaters. Serve it all up with brown rice and pinto beans for a protein- and fiber-rich meal.
Breakfast-for-Dinner Wednesday: Try healthful, kid-pleasing breakfast options such as oatmeal with almond butter and berries, Greek yogurt with honey and melon, or whole grain zucchini muffins with scrambled eggs.
Chicken Thursday: There are so many ways to prepare chicken, and luckily many kids are into it. Try serving chicken nuggets, chicken tenders, shredded chicken (in tacos or sandwiches), grilled chicken sammies, or chicken meatballs. Just be sure to include a healthy grain, like quinoa or whole wheat garlic bread, and some fresh veggies and fruit; orange slices, mixed berries, watermelon, sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and baby carrots are all great options.
Friday Pizza Night: Everyone looks forward to pizza on Friday! Make it healthy and kid-friendly by selecting a frozen cauliflower crust, and loading up with topping such as fresh tomatoes, broccoli, and bell peppers. If your kids like to stick to cheese pizza, that’s fine too; serve up a side of carrots and hummus or broccoli and ranch dip to get those veggies in.
Saturday Wild Card Night: Let your children take turns (or draw straws) to choose the family meal. Allow them to select from a list of pre-approved options (spaghetti and meatballs, macaroni and cheese, tuna salad sandwiches, pulled pork sandwiches, sloppy joes, etc.).
Sunday Soup Night: Kids love soup! Whether it’s chicken noodle, chicken and rice, turkey chili, butternut squash, broccoli and cheddar, or loaded potato, they’ll slurp it up. Serve with a tomato and cucumber salad and some whole wheat crackers.