For all the picky kids...

Although I don't have kids (yet), I truly do commiserate with the parents. Having children isn't in my impending near future, but I must admit — the one thing that scares me about potential parenthood is a daily wrestle to get kids to eat their fruits and veggies.

I'm still not sure how my mom and dad did it, but they could put most any food in front of my brother and me and we'd devour it. We loved fruits and vegetables (and still do...especially veggies!) and would prefer to have them over sweets. I can only hope to have kids who are as open to trying new things!

But in the chance that I don't and for all those moms and dads out there who are currently battling picky eaters (which seems like there are plenty among Cooking Light readers and staffers!), I found two things while surfing around the web that might lend some help.

1. Food magazines for kids

Two come to mind: Chopchop and Ingredient. These magazines follow the logic that if kids read about food, they will not only learn where it comes from but also gain interest in the things they eat, which hopefully will translate into better eating habits. Both are relatively new, but show promise. After all, what kid doesn't love getting something in the mail? As a parent, you could perhaps read the magazine with them (if help is needed) and afterward pick a recipe to shop for and cook together. You might find that your kids are more willing to try a recipe they have a first hand in preparing.

2. Food games

In hopes of encouraging better nutrition for kids, FoodFun developed several food games, complete with charming illustrations. The games can be adapted for older or younger kids, and making a game out of learning about fruits and veggies can make them more fun and appealing for tough-to-please eaters. Parents, you could even bring some of the illustrations to the store and make a game out of picking out vegetables with your kids.

Do any of you already subscribe to these magazines or own any of these games? Let us know your experience with them. Or tell us about some of the other ways you've made fruits and veggies more fun for your children.