WANT EVEN MORE HEALTHY IDEAS FROM SHAPE YOUR FUTURE?
Getting kids to try new foods or understand the concept of nutrition can be a near-nightly challenge. For help, turn to a unique and unexpected resource: television.
Children’s TV shows often present challenging concepts — like the importance of nutrition for
your health — in fun, relatable ways. Check out these nine episodes for some helpful tips you can use to reinforce healthy eating habits with your kids (All shows are available on Netflix, YouTube or PBS).
HEALTHY EATING TIP:
Take small bites.
Sesame Street | Song: Hurray-Hurrah for Broccoli | PBS
This quick song encourages kids to take small bites, explore new tastes and textures — and then decide whether they like a food or not. The character Abby emphasizes the importance of trying new foods, while also highlighting the importance of taking small bites before making big decisions.
HEALTHY EATING TIP:
Try first, then decide.
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood | Episode: Katerina Finally Tries a New Food | PBS
For kids, trying new foods and making their own decisions about what they like are important parts of developing healthy eating habits. This episode highlights this idea when Katerina the cat finally discovers her love for bell peppers, but not carrots. At least she tried them!
HEALTHY EATING TIP:
Drink soda in moderation.
Story Bots | Episode: Food Into Energy | Netflix
The Story Bots teach kids what a sugar crash is — and why they should only have sweets in moderation. The episode is humorous for both adults and children, and it’s filled with memorable song lyrics your kids will enjoy, such as “Your digestive system is your factory, turning food into energy!”
HEALTHY EATING TIP:
Sneak veggies into favorite dishes.
Arthur | Episode: D.W. The Picky Eater | YouTube
In this episode, you can learn how to sneak veggies into your kids’ favorite dishes, like D.W.’s spinach-filled Little Bo Peep Pot Pie. It also encourages kids to be more open to trying new foods, too — even the ones they think are yucky, smelly or disgusting!
HEALTHY EATING TIP:
Eat from all food groups.
Sid the Science Kid | Episode: Healthy Food Habit | YouTube
In this episode, your kids will learn about a healthy plate diagram and the importance of variety in meals. Through the story, they’ll understand they can have cake every once in a while — as long as they’re eating fruits, veggies, whole grains and lean protein, too!
HEALTHY EATING TIP:
Surprise yourself.
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood | Song: Try a New Food, It Might Taste Good! | YouTube
Inspire your kids to try new foods with this quick, upbeat song from Daniel Tiger. Who knows? They just might surprise themselves!
HEALTHY EATING TIP:
Make food more interesting.
Dinosaur Train | Episode: Food For Thought | PBS
In this episode, the dinosaur kids discover how to think, talk and act like scientists. They also meet a theropod named Mr. Chung and learn about the benefits of trying new and different types of foods.
HEALTHY EATING TIP:
Everyone has different tastes.
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood | Episode: Daniel Tries Veggie Spaghetti | PBS
In this episode, Daniel and Miss Elaina will help your kids understand that everyone has different tastes — and trying new foods is a great way to discover what they like!
HEALTHY EATING TIP:
Fight childhood obesity with simple steps.
The Kids Menu | YouTube Documentary
Using real-life stories, this inspiring film teaches middle schoolers and high schoolers the importance of eating healthy at home and at school. Plus, you’ll get actionable ideas for getting healthier options on your own family menus!
With these TV shows and songs as reference points, you can continue the conversation with your kids at home and make healthy eating habits a fun, enjoyable part of your child’s daily routine.