Standing in line at the mall, you and your kids are both tired and hungry. Looking at your watch, you realize that you are going to have to buy something to eat soon. Can you get food on the run that is healthy? Yes, if you make smart choices. Check out these parenting tips for good food while power shopping:
Grab Real Food
The closer to natural the better. Healthy foods like grilled meat, yogurt, nuts, fruits and vegetables are best if you see them on the menu at fast food places. Can't get your children to eat a whole healthy meal? One of the most helpful parenting tips is to just add some healthy choices as a side, or give them a few bites of your healthier food.
Consider Sides
Some of the best choices at a fast food restaurant aren't on the combo menu. Check out the sides and make a meal out of things like a junior burger, side salad, yogurt, or chili. Or choose from the main meal but take the vegetarian option, like an all vegetable sandwich, or an all veggie Asian stir-fry.
Watch What's on Top
Don't forget the total package. Salads can sometimes pack a lot of fat in the dressings and toppings. On the other hand, a grilled chicken sandwich topped with vegetables and mustard with a side salad might give you just as many vitamins with more protein and fewer calories and fat. Keep your food healthier by having your kids eat apples without caramel, and burgers without mayonnaise.
Use an App
While waiting in line, you might want to pick where you are going to eat by using a Fast Food app to help you locate restaurants near you, look up menu items, and view nutrition facts. There are several types of fast food apps and most update menu items and restaurants frequently, along with letting you use them when you don't have a WiFi connection.
Educating children about healthy food choices is important to Kids Konnect. What is your favorite healthy fast food meal for you or your kids?