I get so many mum’s asking me how they can encourage their kids to eat more vegetables and it really is a case of being a little cunning! The best way to up the veg content of your child’s food is by hiding it – but you do need to be quite clever. Choose your colours carefully – you can’t hide broccoli in mashed potato  - especially as kids as suspicious of ‘green bits’.  Chop or shred vegetables to be added to favourite pasta sauces but be careful not to leave any lumps otherwise you’ll be found out. Children like to get involved with their food and it’s a great way to encourage them to try new things. Try growing some vegetables in your garden, terrace or window box, let your children help you in the kitchen and try to cook something new together on a regular basis. If that doesn’t appeal, try serving more ‘build your own’ meals, such as tacos, pizza, kebabs, pitta pockets, where your kids can chose their own fillings and toppings and experiment with different tastes – also, if you ask along a friend who you know is an adventurous eater you may find that a little peer pressure is all that is needed to get your kids enjoying healthy food.

Deborah Marzohl-Ives