My feisty five-year-old won't go near a vegetable much less eat one! Now what?

To answer this question, how about an example...
Day 1-5: He notices two empty circles. You mention those are vegetables, name a few, and then suggest he try some the next day. He says no.
Day 5-9: He still won't go near a vegetable, but you suggest he either hide a microscopic piece of broccoli in his mashed potatoes or drench a carrot in ranch dressing. You tell him it's an easy way to move his veggie magnets, so he relents. He likes seeing his circles fill up.
Day 15: After a few days of hide-the-broccoli and eating carrots in ranch soup, suggest a few other choices from the Shopping List or let him pick out a new vegetable at the grocery store. You make a big deal to family and friends that he is trying new vegetables.
Day 30: He still won't eat a vegetable that isn't "disguised" but he's getting used to the idea that he's a ‘veggie eater'. He likes filling up his chart and thinking he's getting bigger and stronger. You just got him to eat his vegetables without even asking him to.

We are a busy, on-the-go family that isn't home during the day to fill in the chart. What about us?

In the evening take five minutes to talk about your kid's food choices that day and fill in the chart. This time is set aside for nutrition and shows your kid healthy eating is a priority no matter how busy you are.

What about serving size?

To us, the words ‘serving size' and ‘diet' go hand in hand. SuperNoots is not about limiting food. SuperNoots is about allowing food, healthy food, to nourish our bodies. So, don't worry if your kid eats only one bite of sweet potato or three bowls of oatmeal, as long as it's a smart choice, it's okay.

What if my kids don't fill up their chart and they get upset?

Wow, what a great problem! This is a great opportunity to tell them that eating healthy also means only eating when you're hungry. Praise them for the healthy food they did eat that day so they'll feel that sense of accomplishment. Also, praise them for listening to their bodies by only eating when they're hungry.

How can we maintain healthy eating on special occasions, sick days or vacation?

Oh, the joy of a funnel cake at the fair, a milkshake after an orthodontist appointment or the corner piece of birthday cake. Treats like these are basically a rite of passage for kids. Use these special treats as a teaching tool that treats are okay in moderation. Maybe eat only a few bites of funnel cake or share that milkshake with Mom. Just be careful to not begin the habit of "mood" eating by offering your upset kids unhealthy, comfort foods to make them feel better.

Isn't cheese a dairy and a protein?

Yes, it is. We separated those "double-duty" foods to keep things simple. You and your kids can work out these issues together. We advise against moving two magnets for one food so your kids get the most out of each food group.

Can I count hot dogs as a protein?

Sure...at first. Let's not start off by denying your kid the chance to move a magnet. If your kids really love hot dogs, next time try smoked turkey franks. Suggest healthier protein options, such as egg salad, a turkey sandwich or a chicken quesadilla.