You can beg, plead, threaten to punish or bribe. But sometimes, it seems that nothing you try will work. Your child just hates taking vitamins.
With chalky textures and bland flavors, it’s not surprising that kids turn up their noses at some supplements. But parents shouldn’t worry too much. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that as long as kids eat a varied and balanced diet, they don’t really need multi-vitamins. So if your little one is eating reasonably well, relax.
If, however, junior refuses to eat fruits and vegetables, skips meals frequently and indulges in fast foods or processed foods, supplements can play a crucial role in filling in nutritional gaps. Kids need vitamins and other nutrients for their bodies and brains to develop properly, and it’s your job to provide them.
Here are some tips to get picky eaters to take their daily doses:
“¢ Crush and sprinkle them into applesauce, yogurt or pudding.
“¢ Crush and mix into sweet juice (pineapple works well).
“¢ Crush and mix into a fruit smoothie.
“¢ Try liquid vitamins. If the child doesn’t like the liquid, blend it into his or her favorite beverage.
“¢ Try gummy vitamins or vitamin gum balls.
“¢ Try vitamin wafers or strips that dissolve easily.
“¢ Make taking vitamins a routine””do it at the same time every day.
“¢ Experiment with different types of vitamins until you find one your child likes. Read product reviews online before purchasing a new brand.
“¢ Use a compartmentalized vitamin dispenser and let your child open the flap each day.