If you're like most parents, you want your kids to eat healthy but might find that getting them to do so can be a challenge. You may feel like you have to sacrifice your family's favorite foods or put up with complaints, but it doesn't have to be that way. With a little effort, you can make small changes that will have a big impact on your kids' diets without any sacrifices or complaints.

It's easier than you think to make small changes for a big impact

Get the kids involved in the grocery shopping

One way to get your kids more involved in their diet is to let them help with grocery shopping and meal planning. This can be as simple as letting them pick out one new fruit or vegetable to try each week, or giving them a budget to work with when creating a grocery list. Not only will this teach them about healthy eating, but it will also help them develop important life skills like budgeting and menu planning.

Involve them in cooking and getting food ready

Another way to get your kids interested in healthy eating is to involve them in the cooking process. This could mean having them wash and chop vegetables, measure ingredients, or even just set the table. Not only will they be more likely to eat foods that they've helped prepare, but they'll also develop valuable cooking skills that they can use later in life.

Sit down as a family to eat whenever possible

Eating together as a family is one of the best ways to encourage healthy eating habits in kids. When children see their parents sitting down and enjoying a meal, they're more likely to do the same. Family meals also give you a chance to model healthy eating habits and teach your kids about nutrition. So if you can, make an effort to sit down for meals together as often as possible.

You don't have to give up all of your family's favorite foods

Create healthier versions of the dishes you love

You can find healthier versions of just about any recipe these days. With a few simple substitutions, you can make your family's favorite foods much healthier. For example, you can use low-fat dairy products, whole wheat flour, and lean meats. This recipe claims to be the BEST oatmeal chocolate chip cookie recipe, and it's hard to argue. Even better, it's a healthier alternative to regular cookies.

Experiment with new foods

It's also important to experiment with new foods. Introducing new healthy foods into your family's diet is a great way to get everyone eating better. And who knows, they might just find a new favorite food!

Focus on quality over quantity