Is your child a fussy eater? The one who runs away at the sight of a bowl of fruits or of broccoli? Then this article is for you! 

A study shows that between the age group of 2 to 11 years, about 89% children are picky eaters (ref. Abbott UK). It is during this time, that the integral foundation of a child’s mental and physical health is established. But how can one hope to do that when the child simply refuses to comply?

You could sneak a spoon full of peas in between scoops of mashed potatoes, only to have the baby spit them out and throw a temper tantrum. You could bribe your pre teen to have one green veggie a day, in return of extra play time. Or you could imbibe your child with one simple habit- that of consuming almonds every morning.

 A few almonds a day can prove to have a lifetime of benefits for your young one-

• Being a high source of fiber and proteins, they aid one’s digestive system.
• They are considered “brain foods” for their ability to enhance brain functionality.
• Almonds allow a higher calorie intake, that boosts one’s energy without adding to their waist line.
• They are a great source of vitamin E.

And these are just a few of the many benefits of almonds…!

We get that forming any habit can be tough for an adult- then kids are a whole different ball game! So you have to be innovative, but to your aid, is the fact that almonds are rather versatile in their taste and can easily be incorporated in your young one’s daily diet- Crush them over a flavored yogurt; churn them into a milkshake, give them plain or make these delicious Gluten-free Almond Crisps:

Ingredients:

• 3 large egg whites
• ½ a cup of super fine sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 3 full cups of almonds flakes

Method:

1. Cut or use a grater to make almond flakes (remember to keep their skin on). Lightly toast the flakes and set aside.
2. Preheat the oven to 350degrees and prepare two baking trays with baking paper. (you can use butter and flour dust, if you don’t have parchment paper)
3. In a bowl, whisk the egg whites to form a smooth foam. Add in the sugar and vanilla.
4. Into the mixture, gently fold the almond flakes.
5. On the prepared trays, scoop a spoonful of the mixture and press it down using the back of a ladle or a plate, so that small (say 2 inch) discs are formed. Continue the process till the tray is full.
6. Bake for 15 minutes. But turn the tray at half time.

Allow them to cool and later treat your kids to a very tasty and nutritional treat! As an option, you could also drizzle some melted chocolate over them, making them simply irresistible. They make a great snack for lunch boxes or even munching for kids!