It’s winter school holiday time and hopefully you’ll be getting a little time to spend with your little (and perhaps big) kids. In my 15+ years as a Dietitian I’ve learned that quite often kids learn the BEST lessons about food away from the dinner table or the family kitchen. They often happen when we’re not really thinking about eating or food or “good nutrition” at all. They happen when families and friends are enjoying each other’s company, when we’re relaxed and having fun with our kids and when there’s no food agenda in sight. Fussy kids (and kids in general) can spot a food agenda from 100 paces.
Then I got to thinking… we are spoiled for choice in and around South East Queensland to create our own food adventures with heaps of sensory experiences. It might just be the thing to bring your fussy eater one tiny step closer to learning to like a new food. No agendas, no strings attached… just fun times with your kids. These are everyday activities for your kids to engage their 5 senses of sight, smell, and hearing and maybe touch and taste if they’re ready.
Here are my TOP 6 local food adventures for you to enjoy these winter holidays…
Farmers’ markets
Pay a visit to your local farmers market and hunt to find the weirdest looking fruit or veggie. In my area of Moreton Bay region, some of the markets with fresh produce are held at Bribie, Caboolture, Mt Mee, Old Petrie Town, Redcliffe, Samford, Strathpine, Wamuran and Woodford. Find one near you.
Visit your local community garden
Find a community garden near you or further afield. In Brisbane, join a FREE farm tour at Northey Street City Farm, Windsor every Tuesday from 9:30-10:30am or just take a wander and see what you can find. The Northey Street City Farm Playgroup meets every Friday in the children’s garden.
Go fishing
Throw a line in somewhere on our beautiful coastline, rivers or creeks and catch dinner.
Maleny Dairy
A little further afield at Maleny Dairies, teach your kids where milk REALLY comes from and see hand milking and how things are done the modern way. Tours happen every Monday to Saturday at various times between 10:30am and 2:30pm.
Home gardening activities
Plant herbs, winter veggies or fruiting plants at home in pots, raised beds or your existing garden. It can be as big or small as you want. Give the kids responsibility for caring for seedlings and plants and watch them grow.
Go strawberry picking
Whether your kids love or hate strawberries they’ll have heaps of fun picking them. If they’re not keen on touching the strawberries, let them hold the basket. Best times to pick – June to November. Try Rolin Farms at Elimbah, Strawberry Fields at Palmview or The Berry Patch at Chambers Flat.
Get out, have some foodie fun with the kids and eat happy!
Deb Blakley
Accredited Practising Dietitian & Director
Post edited 26 June 2020
