Keeping kids interested in the dinner process can be daunting for any parent. For most families, eating dinner together is a rare occasion. Work, school, and activities outside of the home can interfere with making dinner a fun, social experience. But who has time to plan an elaborate meal that will keep kids interested? Try making dinner an activity requiring full participation. It is easier than it sounds. Setting up a baked potato bar on the kitchen counter will allow for a variety of nutritional options. Provide a little something for everyone and let kids experiment with making new flavor combinations. This will allow them to feel involved in the process and to give them some choices in what they eat for dinner.
Simply poke holes with a fork into each potato. Bake in the oven at 400 degrees for 45-60 minutes. While the potatoes are baking, prepare small bowls with a variety of toppings.
- Salsa
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Blue cheese crumbles
- Black olives
- Green onions, white onions, or red onions
- Cottage cheese
- Low-fat sour cream
- Crumbled turkey bacon bits
- Ask ahead of time for special requests so no one feels disappointed
Let each person go through the line one at a time. Serve with a fresh salad on the side to make for a healthy dinner. Each person can tell how they built their perfect potato. This makes for a more dynamic meal experience and allows everyone to feel involved.
Comments
This is a great idea! Sounds delicious, fun and healthy! (And easy...which is what I'm always looking for!)
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