If your kid’s protein intake is consuming your thoughts, I’m here to offer some much-needed relief
Society’s obsession with protein has skyrocketed, and it’s all over our grocery store shelves—from protein-fortified cereals, chips, and crackers to protein waters. For parents, protein is definitely top of mind as you try to get even a morsel into your buttered noodle-obsessed kid’s body. But are we stressing a little more than we need to be? When it comes to protein for kids, how much do they really need?
Simply put, children need protein but they don’t need a lot of it. I know, sounds hard to believe, but before you spit out your (microwaved) coffee in shock here’s what you need to know.
What makes protein so important anyway?
Protein offers kids sustained energy and satiety, which is helpful for both stay-at-home crawlers and active school-goers. It also slows carbohydrate digestion, preventing the blood sugar spikes that can make kids moody and tired. Protein is a powerful resource for children and an important part of a balanced diet.
How much protein do kids actually need?
Less than you think! Protein is essential for growth but their small bodies don’t need a ton of it just yet. Toddlers between the ages of 1 and 3 require 13 grams of protein per day and older kids between the ages of 4 and 8 only need 19 grams per day.
To put this in perspective, a single-serving container of Greek yogurt boasts 16 grams of protein—that’s more than a toddler’s daily requirement. Similarly, a peanut butter sandwich contains about 8-12 grams of protein, covering most of a child’s daily needs. So it’s safe to say that serving protein-rich foods once or twice a day should be sufficient. And if your child isn’t a big eater, don’t sweat it.
Tips and tricks for meeting your kid’s daily protein needs.
1. Beige foods for the win.
Even if your toddler refuses burgers at a BBQ or chicken fingers at grandma’s house, they can still get all the protein they need by eating beige foods—you know, the foods that toddler dreams and diets are made of. Think pasta, bread, and crackers. For example, you’ll find 7 g of protein in 3/4 cup of rigatoni. So when you feel guilty about serving pasta the third night this week, just remember that your kid’s protein needs for that day are half met. Mom win!
2. Explore out-of-the-box proteins.
Instead of loading your grocery cart with pricey protein bars and powders, you probably already have protein-rich food in your pantry. Did you know that carbohydrates are high in protein? Yup, that’s right. The next time your toddler grabs a second (or third) dinner roll, he’s likely eating protein too! Here are some other protein-filled carbs you may want to add to your pantry:
1/3 cup of rolled oats contains 6 g of protein
2 tbsp of hummus has 2 g of protein
2 slices of whole wheat bread includes 8 g of protein
A couple handfuls of Cheerios contain 2-3 g of protein
4 tbsp of black beans has 3 g of protein
3. A little protein goes a long way.
While you can knock out your protein requirements with a couple of servings a day, picky eaters may require a little more ingenuity. Instead of serving large portions of protein at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offer small amounts at meals and snacks. Consider adding ‘protein toppings’ such as chia seeds, hemp seeds, ground nuts, or seeds that can be sprinkled on oatmeal or yogurt or added to cereals, smoothies, and baked goods. It is much easier (and less overwhelming!) to meet protein needs by adding little bits throughout the day.
Putting it into practice.
Making sure your kids get enough protein doesn’t have to be a struggle. Including fan-favorite pantry staples (Hello Cheerios! Hi bread!) throughout the day will make meeting their needs more manageable for even the pickiest eaters. Here are a few examples of how to hit the mark each day using typical proteins and beloved beige foods:
We don’t know your kid, but if yours is anything like ours, they can sniff out a piece of kale hiding in a quesadilla faster than you can pop a straw in a juice box. In other words, getting them to eat healthy stuff isn’t always so easy. But here’s our tip. Don’t be sneaky about it. Instead, be creative and work with what you’ve got. Check out our tried-and-true ways to get your kids to eat healthier—without all of the disguises—because Mama didn’t raise no fool.
Chicken Nuggets
Is there anything that’s been reinvented more than the chicken nugget? We don’t think so. From alphabet shapes to dinosaurs, spicy to sweet, chicken nuggets come in every shape and size. The bad news? They’re often packed with preservatives and sodium. Instead of buying them in bulk, give this panko chicken recipe a go—it’s such an easy healthy food swap. Easy to make in batches, the panko holds its crunch and you can even crisp it up in an air fryer in no time, if you’re eating it throughout the week.
Macaroni & Cheese
Doesn’t every kid love mac & cheese? Who can blame them? And secretly, who doesn’t take a bite out of their leftovers before loading dishwasher? For a healthier riff on mac & cheese, try making a pot of green mac and cheese with spinach, peas and broccoli. The bright color and cheesy, creamy texture rings all the right bells.
Buttered Noodles
What is it about buttered noodles that kids love so much? Oh. Right. There’s butter, and then there are noodles. So it’s pretty perfect on the palate but falls short in nutritive strength. So, we have two options here. Serve it with protein-enriched or whole-grain pasta, or just serve it less frequently (but don’t mess with a masterpiece). We all need a reason to live, right?
Grilled Cheese
Dang it. We like these, too. But for the sake of being “good parents,” let’s explore options with the Grand Dame of Kid Food: The Grilled Cheese. First, switch around your cooking method. Instead of bathing it in a skillet of butter, batch bake them on a sheet with a light mist of olive oil on the pan. Another option is to pack some nutrition into your bread choice. Pass on the white bread and see how sprouted grains pleases your kids, instead. Finally, you can pack it full of spinach, ham, or sliced tomato if you don’t have a purist waiting for lunch to be served. How’s that for healthy food swaps?
Quesadilla
Lentils are a great source of protein, which helps keep you full for longer. Since the cooked lentils are pureed and mixed with salsa, they taste like refried beans, and picky eaters will be none the wiser. Check out our recipe for Grilled Lentil Quesadillas for a healthier alternative to the classic.
iStock
Pizza
Anything you pick up or have delivered is going to come with a hefty health bill, when you add up all the salt (and frequently, sugar) found in pizza. But it’s so good. And so easy. Nonetheless, pizza made at home is not only fun, but also free from the hidden health hazards you’ll find in the delivery box. A prime reason to implement a healthy food swap here. Try making personal pizzas on a pita bread base, and let them choose toppings from an assortment of veggies and proteins. You can broil it for a quick fix, or try grilling it for another exciting twist.
Tacos
We take Taco Tuesday seriously, except sometimes it falls on a Wednesday or Thursday. But weekly tacos are a thing, so keeping the ingredients exciting is key to keeping the kiddos coming back for more. Instead of ground beef, cheese, lettuce and sour cream, try a vegetarian taco night with sauteed beans and mushrooms. home made guac (or hefty avocado slices), diced tomatoes and salsa. Or, go rogue with cheeseburger tacos. Brown turkey and diced onions for the filler, and let them top it with shredded lettuce, tomato, ketchup, mustard and cheese. Basically anything can be adapted to taco form, and we’re here for it. We bet your kids will be, too.
Spaghetti
Amp up your spaghetti game by sautéing shredded carrots and zucchini with garlic before dumping your favorite jar of pre-made sauce into the pan to simmer. For meat-lovers, brown some turkey sausage and add a dash of fennel to it to make it seem like Italian sausage. Noodles get an upgrade when you choose whole grain pasta or higher protein pasta, instead of the regular noodles. There are a million ways to add nutrition into spaghetti without sacrificing flavor, but be sure to check the back of your sauce jar—some brands are much worse than others about adding unneeded sugar to their sauce.
If you’ve lived in LA for awhile, you probably feel like you’ve been there, done that. That’s why we did a little recon and sussed out some epic, under-the-radar vacation gems that have been hiding right under our noses. From camping near free-roaming bison to an in-town hotel that has dive-in movies and feels a million miles away, check out the list below and get ready to plan a family staycation, weekend getaway or spring break vacation you’ve never experienced before—all easily reachable within a few hours of LA.
This article is sponsored by Little Tikes®, which offers a variety of toys that’ll turn your backyard into a springtime playground. From water and outdoor kids’ toys to playhouses, ride-on cars and so much more, children two to six years old will be entertained for hours. To learn more about Little Tikes®’ products, visit littletikes.com.
This whimsical, retro hotel, located in North Hollywood feels like it was plucked right out of Palm Springs and dropped on Vineland Ave. but rather than fight traffic on the 10, most Angelenos can get to this secret gem in less than 30 minutes.
Family Perks: Universal Studios and CityWalk is just a free (yes, FREE!) trolley ride away, courtyard games the whole family can play are available from the front desk, and one of our favorite alfresco restaurants, The Front Yard, is on-site. But really, for the kids at least, it's all about the pool and the jacuzzi right? Spend the day watching the kids go from pool to jacuzzi and back again. And an added bonus? The pool is also home to dive-in movies, where kids of all ages can enjoy a classic flick starting at sundown daily in the summer, and on weekends year-round.
4222 Vineland Ave. North Hollywood Online: thegarland.com
Just two hours from DTLA, Cuyama Buckhorn is a roadside resort that is big on style (mid-century meets western cowboy vibes) and locally-sourced goods from the Valley of Hidden Enchantment. A fun weekend trip here requires little more effort than lounging by the pool and dining on-site—it's the kind of all-in-one spot that is part road-trip, part destination yet delivers vacation vibes in spades.
Family Perks: If you must peel yourselves away from the pool, there's a ton to see and do with kids nearby Cuyama. Visit Carrizo Plain National Monument to explore the salt flats and grasslands, see the San Andreas Fault, cave paintings, and during the spring, some of California's best wildflowers. For an animal encounters, visit Cuyama Oaks Ranch, to pet pigs, goats and fowl galore (open Thurs.-Mon.) or Hidden Creek Ranch—where you can book an equine experience that includes learning about horses, grooming and riding them. Don't forget to carve out a little extra time and make a special stop for some pie from The Place—recent options include: Lemon Meringue, Pecan, Raspberry Rhubarb and Dutch Apple. YUM!
With temperatures heating up, heading to the beach is a no-brainer for SoCal families—and while you've probably hit the usual suspects, this off-the-beaten-path resort is what spring break dreams are made of. The Seabird Resort has everything a family is looking for—an expansive pool deck, lots of dining options, a spa for the parents (tag-team parenting FTW), and access to the beach with your very own beach valet.
Family Perks: If the kids have had enough sand and sun, check out the complimentary activities available to resort guests like the Seabird Art Scavenger Hunt and Craft Hour. If you've always wanted to learn how to catch a wave surfer-style, you can book surf lessons for the whole family (ages 4 & up).
If you haven't heard about Solvang, this Danish-inspired town located just two hours from DTLA is an easy way to get your European fix without hopping on a plane (and the subsequent jet lag). The family will love shopping this walkable town and eating their merry way through aebleskivers, Napolean's Hats and more.
Family Perks: Don't miss (totally kitschy) Ostrichland where brave little ones can feed these descendants of dinosaurs and Sunny Fields Park—a playground complete with viking ship, windmill and mini gingerbread house.
Although Avalon is Catalina Island's most popular destination (here's our guide to spending the weekend in Avalon with kids if you're looking for something less rustic), there's an island adventure on the island's lesser well-known west end via the tiny town of Two Harbors. Hop aboard the Catalina Express and enjoy beautiful Pacific views as you cruise from San Pedro to Two Harbors. The trip takes under two hours and once you're there, outdoor activities are the name of the game.
Family Perks: Families can kayak, hike, fish or spend a memorable day snorkeling the clear blue waters. Two Harbors also offers a unique opportunity for a family camping trip! Bring your tent and gear on the ferry or rent a tent cabin at Two Harbors Campground. And no need to haul over all your supplies—you can pre-order from the Two Harbors General Store. They'll deliver food, drinks and other items straight to your campsite for a fee. Don't forget to bring your binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for American bison free-roaming the island.
Palm Springs? Check. Joshua Tree? Check, check. What about Pioneertown? Say what? This little town, located 40 minutes north of Palm Springs (and just 10 minutes from Joshua Tree) looks straight out of the Old West—and for good reason—the area was actually built as a set for for movie studios in the 1940s, complete with a saloon, bank and stables. Today, you can still stroll through pedestrian-friendly downtown Pioneertown, where no cars are allowed—it's "Hoof & Foot Only," as the signs say.
Family Perks: Eat at Pappy and Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace, which is both a restaurant known for its burgers and an iconic music venue—legendary artists including Led Zeppelin's Robert Plant and Vampire Weekend have performed here. Want to extend your stay beyond just a day trip? Book a room at The Pioneertown Motel—which has been revamped and is now, Instagram-worthy.
This family-owned hotel is the only lodging with a private (and direct access) beach in Carlsbad Village, and is within easy walking distance to over 70 shops and restaurants. Make sure to order the Continental breakfast—reviewers can't stop raving about it.
Family Perks: LEGOLAND and The Flower Fields are less than five miles away while San Diego is just 30 minutes to the south.
Hotel Cheval, located in the town square in Paso Robles, is sophisticated enough for adults yet seemingly made for kids. The hotel has it's very own in-house S'mores Butler (complimentary evening S’mores made to order down to the ingredient choices and how you like your marshmallows roasted) and a Library and Candy Bar—yep, you guessed it—a cozy spot to read a book, play a board game and nibble on some complimentary sweets. And don't forget your furry family member—this hotel is dog-friendly to boot.
Family Perks: As if the above aren't enough, this spot is just a 10-minute drive from Sensorio: Art Installation in Paso Robles—where 6‑foot-tall towers composed of more than 17,000 wine bottles, illuminated with glowing optic fibers whose colors morph to a moving musical score. There's also a nearby waterpark, horseback riding, and for the parents, wine-tasting galore.
The Bay Area is the mecca for adventurous eating, so why should the adults be having all the fun? From acai bowls to Indian burritos, it’s time to trade in the standard chocolate chip cookie for a macaroon at these local spots with little foodies in mind. Check out our favorite family restaurants for adventurous kids to get those taste buds talking.
Pacific Catch
Pacific Catch/Anna Marks
With a brand-new location that just opened up in Santa Clara, you have even more options for dining out with your family at Pacific Catch. Offering primarily seafood options, your family will love the fish tacos, lobster roll with fresh avocado and the family-style fresh catch entrees that take the guesswork out of what to order for dinner. The kids menu options include kid-sized versions of the popular fish and chips, coconut shrimp and California rolls. Non-fish eaters can opt for chicken strips or a teriyaki bowl with chicken as the protein. The Santa Clara location has ample outdoor seating and a fire pit for when the temps dip.
3315 Coronado Place Santa Clara, CA
11 locations across the Bay Area including Cupertino, San Francisco and Walnut Creek
With four Bay Area locations to choose from, there's likely a Jack's Restaurant near you. We love it for a family night out as the restaurants are totally family-friendly and the menu is full of food that kids will love. Take the kids on a trip to the Mediterranean with the sampler as a starter (pitas, hummus and tzatziki). Lamb meatballs are terrific for sharing along with the garlic oregano fries. Skip the traditional kid's menu choices and share a plate of the lamb chops that are perfectly sized for picking up and eating with your hands. To keep the Greek flavor going until the end, opt for the galaktoboureko for dessert. Layers of sweet phyllo pastry, semolina custard and apricot-orange blossom preserve will be just the bite you need to round out the meal.
Locations in Newark, San Bruno, San Mateo and Pleasant Hill Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner Online: ilovejacks.com
August (1) Five
Kate Loweth
The deep aromas of Indian food welcome you as soon as you walk in the door at August (1) Five in San Francisco. This modern take on Indian food is particularly kid friendly at brunch time when they offer a rotating menu of options like French toast topped with bananas and butterscotch and arancini. Both Chef Manish and owner Hetal's own children love the Poori Aloo, a potato stew, and the Veggie Appam, a savory, gluten-free pancake. It's location is ideal as it is right down the street from the War Memorial Opera House and open for dining before or after Nutcracker and SF Symphony performances.
524 Van Ness Ave. San Francisco, CA Hours: Brunch: 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat.-Sun. Lunch: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Tues.-Fri. Dinner: 5 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Tues.-Sun. (open until 10:30 p.m. on Fri.-Sat). Online: august1five.com
SAJJ Mediterranean
SAJJ Mediterranean
Need something a little different to eat on family movie night? Check out SAJJ Mediterranean for a menu that’s healthy, filling and affordable for the whole crew with locally-sourced produce and hormone-free Halal meats. With their Feast for 4 deal, you’ll get falafel, chicken shwarma, salad, rice, hummus, tzatziki and pita bread for all of $30. With locations in SF, Mountain View, San Jose and Sunnyvale, you can pick it up on your way home and have dinner done.
4140 North First St. Suite #10 San Jose, CA Hours: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m-9 p.m & Fri.-Sat., 11 a.m-10 p.m Online: sajjstreeteats.com
The popular food truck serving Indian street food with a twist has several brick and mortar locations all over the Bay Area, and the décor is enough to want to hang out with the whole family. While the food choices can be a bit spicy for the little ones, the kids' menu is there to the rescue. The Bunty Burrito with paneer and Naan Pizza are top choices that are an instant hit, while grown-ups can snack on Sexy Fries and samosas. Can’t stay? Check out their Family-Style Meals To Go in Alameda and Oakland (for now).
1745 San Pablo Ave. Oakland, CA Hours: Mon.-Sun., 11:30 a.m-9 p.m Online: curryupnow.com
Mendocino Farms
Kate Loweth
This LA-based deli (and more!) is all the rage since it opened up its first location in Campbell and second in San Jose. The kids' menu is pretty standard, but the PB&J will probably be the best version of this sandwich you’ll ever have. Get your little ones to try something new like the beet side salad—you can grab samples of whatever sides look appetizing while you wait to pay for your meal. Aside from the delish menu, these people know what it’s like to eat out with kids by designing a kid’s corner complete with a mini table, chalk wall and Connect Four game. With the goal of building a place that the community can gather around, Mendocino Farms just might hit the spot. Read more here.
The Pruneyard 1875 S. Bascom Ave. Campbell, CA
Santana Row 3090 Olsen Dr., Suite 150 San Jose, CA
With a restaurant named “Thanks Mom” in Spanish and a dedication to love of the earth and the families that live in it, you almost have to visit, and it’ll be so worth it. This Mission Mexican joint is 100% plant-based, non-GMO and authentic. The interior décor takes you to a village in Mexico, while the food (looking at you guacamole) snagged some rave reviews from the Zagat national food reviewers. Try the quesadillas with pumpkin seed salsa and flautas with sweet potato and caramelized onions for a delicious take on vegan Mexican fare.
2211 Misson St. San Francisco, CA Hours: Mon. & Tues., 11 a.m-10 p.m; Wed.-Fri., 11 a.m-11 p.m; Sat., 10 a.m-11 p.m; Sun., 10 a.m-10 p.m Online: gracias-madre.com
Bumble
Mama bees looking for a place that doesn’t scream kid friendly but so is, look no further than Bumble. Its chic décor makes it an ideal spot for a mama’s brunch, while the playroom (available for a fee) and healthy kids' menu makes it all sorts of OK to bring the little ones. Mini pink waffles will match your grown-up portion, and the Lil B’ Plate makes it a point to include seasonal fruit and veggies. You can spend an entire afternoon here, but be sure to check the calendar for movie days and family nights.
145 First St. Los Altos, CA Hours: Tues.-Fri., 9 a.m-2 p.m; Sat. & Sun., 8 a.m-3 p.m Online: bumblelosaltos.com
For a healthy snack when the tummies are growling, head on over to Mana Bowls for take out. The Brazilian café is all about the super foods in a delicious way with acai bowls, smoothies and fresh juices. The peanut butter mango bowl is one of our favorites—acai sorbet and coconut base topped with granola and honey. The bitty bowls are perfect for the mini-me's and come with acai sorbet, bananas, strawberries, apple juice and granola.
1930 Sir Francis Drake Blvd. Fairfax, CA Hours: Daily 10 a.m-5 p.m Online: Manabowls.com
Think you can’t get a burger if you’re vegan? The founders of VeganBurg set out on a mission to change exactly that, and it has become one of the most popular vegan joints in the Bay Area, earning celebrity nods from Taylor Swift and Sir Paul McCartney. 100% plant-based and GMO-free, you can feel good about what you’re eating and how it impacts the environment. The Mini Meal includes a burger, fries with broccoli and a cookie. The other location is in Singapore, so we can rest easy that this one is located right here in the Bay.
1466 Haight St. San Francisco, CA Hours: Sun.-Thurs., 11 a.m-9 p.m; Fri. & Sat., 11 a.m-10 p.m Online: veganburg.com
Sunday supper is cozy and homey at this Piedmont neighborhood restaurant. Dishes change weekly and there is always a pasta dish (linguini with butter and parmesan cheese) made just for kiddos. For something more, they can indulge just like the grown-ups do with half-portion, half-priced three-course prix fixe dinners that include items like steak and eggs and cinnamon roll bread pudding.
For fast, casual, authentic Mexican food that’s more than a cheese quesadilla with beans, check out Panchito’s in North Bay. Here you can order classic favorites like carne asada and chile verde, with some pretty tasty chips and salsa on the side. Not only does the kids' menu serve up adult-sized entrees like Chile Relleno and tamales, they also feature a vocabulary key for bitty diners who want to try out their Spanish. De nada!
667 De. Gando Rd. San Rafael, CA Hours: Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m-9 p.m & Sat., 12 p.m-9 p.m Online: Panchitosrestaurant.com
Take the kiddos to Westfield Mall (next to Nordstrom’s) after some back-to-school shopping or before a movie at the Metreon for some yummy comfort food. Tap 415 has a cool vibe for both adults and kids with a thought out menu designed just for them. Classics include mac n’ cheese, cheddar burgers and mini corn dogs, but the seasonal mocktails and shakes are worth saving some room for.
845 Westfield Center, 4th Floor San Francisco, CA Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 11:30 a.m-9 p.m; Fri. & Sat., 11:30 a.m-9:30 p.m & Sun., 11:30 a.m-8:30 p.m Online: tap415.com
Foreign Cinema
The iconic SF restaurant draws the crowds every day, and although it’s a prime date spot, you wouldn’t believe it’s also seriously kid-friendly. The three-course prix fixe meal comes with chicken or steak, veggies, and pasta, and ends with an ice cream sundae while a feature film is shown in the background. Who knew a kids' menu could be so grown-up, but still add some fun with crayons and a coloring book?
2534 Mission St. San Francisco, CA Hours: Mon.-Wed., 5:30-10 p.m; Thurs.-Sat., 5:30-11 p.m; Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m-2:30 p.m Online: Foreigncinema.com
Fish sticks get a much needed upgrade with fish n’ chips at Yankee Pier. This East Bay restaurant is all about sustainability and their fresh seafood from “coast to coast” makes for one delicious meal. Kids' menu features shrimp cocktail, grilled salmon, classic clam chowder, and of course, fish n’ chips. For dessert, check out the house-made butterscotch bread pudding with whipped cream, enough for the table to share.
Calling all Indian burrito fans—this place is for you! The perfect lunch on the go, these burritos come with tikka masala, curried lamb and potatoes all wrapped up nicely in a flour tortilla. For the little ones, have them try a kid-sized version with egg, rice and yogurt. Although the menu is small, it packs a big punch when it comes to flavor. They have two locations in the city and offer catering for big events.
4001 18th St. San Francisco, CA Hours: Daily 11 a.m-10 p.m Online:Kasaindian.com
For casual Japanese food that you’ll actually want to visit with the whole gang, this Redwood City joint makes it easy to nosh on fresh sashimi while your kiddos explore mini portions of teriyaki bento boxes, tonkastsu bowls and ramen in soy sauce broth. The outside patio is nice to enjoy on a sunny day, and if naptime is near, all items are available for take out.
Healthy food backed by a physician gives us all the good-for-you feels. With locations in Palo Alto and Walnut Creek, True Food Kitchen is all about mingling nutrient-rich foods with flavorful combos for a meal that gives you the energy to chase those kids around for the rest of the day. Kids' menu items include almond butter, banana and apple sandwiches and chicken teriyaki bowls with brown rice and quinoa. Be sure to check out their brunch as well with yummy options of juices and smoothies, salads and grain bowls.
180 El Camino Real, Suite 1140 Palo Alto, CA Hours: Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m-9 p.m; Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m-9 p.m Online: truefoodkitchen.com
If you’re homeschooling your children by choice, or you’re doing so because of COVID-19 shutdowns, it’s a challenge. Homeschooling your children can be rewarding, but there are also a lot of things you have to overcome. One issue you may be facing is how to keep giving your kids healthy, nutritious snacks and meals while they’re spending so much time at home. The kids’ meals you feed your family, as well as their snacks, are what will fuel them to perform at their best level during their homeschool day, and the following are some tips and ideas.
1. Use a Meal Delivery Service
One option that can be convenient and perhaps a lifesaver, especially if you’re working from home at the same time as teaching or overseeing learning, is a meal delivery service. A meal delivery service will bring kid-approved, fresh, and prepared items right to your door. It eliminates the need to do meal prep, and if you go with a delivery service like Yumble, their items are specifically geared toward even the pickiest of eaters.
2. Create an Idea List
If your kids are a bit older and you want to take some of the work off your plate, you can create a list of meal and snack ideas, perhaps monthly or weekly. Stock the house with the items from that list, and then your kids can refer to it when they’re hungry. They can use it as inspiration to make their own meals and snacks based on what you have at home and what they’re in the mood for. You can make it part of your kids’ responsibilities to mark off any ingredient or food items that you run out of from the list, so you know when to replenish them.
3. Prep Snacks
You may already be meal prepping for lunch when you’re homeschooling, but don’t forget about snacks. Snacks are an important part of kids’ days and they fill-in nutritional gaps with items they might not get during mealtime. If you meal prep, make time to prepare snacks ahead of time as well. Packs of cut-up vegetables with dips are a good option, as are hardboiled eggs and muffins.
4. Get Inspired
The following are some ideas you can use as inspiration for lunch ideas when your kids learning at home:
Cheese quesadillas on whole wheat tortillas
Breakfast for lunch with things like scrambled eggs and pancakes
Mini pizzas on pita bread
Almond butter and jelly sandwiches
5. Choose Accessible Tools & Storage
Finally, when you’re making lunches and snacks for your kids during the homeschool day, there are some tools and storage containers that can make things easier. You can use mason jars to store items like soup, salads, or fruit and vegetables that you prepare ahead of time. Silicon muffin cups are a fun way to make dips accessible for fruits and vegetables. You can also use color-coded plates and Tupperware so kids can easily find the items meant for them.
"Rae is a graduate of Tufts University with a combined International Relations and Chinese degree. After spending time living and working abroad in China, she returned to NYC to pursue her career and continue curating quality content. Rae is passionate about travel, food, and writing (of course)."
Do your New Year’s resolutions include eating more healthy family dinners? After a season of indulging in endless quarantine snacking and cookie and banana bread baking, it’s time to kick off 2021 with some healthy takeout from local restaurants. Healthy family meals are just a call or click away. Read on for how to make healthy eating at home a snap!
Flower Child
Flower Child
Eat the rainbow and capture that sunshine state-of-mind with a to-go order from Flower Child in Del Mar. This delicious and veggie-centric menu includes tasty favorites like the Glow Bowl with sweet potato noodle, Vegan Massaman Curry, Turkey Sausage & Zucchini Lasagna and fresh salads with organic ingredients. Have a hungry crew to feed? Opt for their Family Pack Bundle with family-sized protein, choice of 2 sides and a large chopped vegetable salad. Keto, gluten-free, vegetarian and a healthy kids' menu are all available.
Good to know: Download the Flower Child app and make ordering quick and easy for stress-free dinnertime.
Get your juice bar fix and make the kids happy with a pick-up order from Juice Alchemy. This family-owned business serves up juices, smoothies and Acai Bowls along with feel-good fare like the fully-loaded Power Toast and Alchemy Club Sandwich. Online ordering and pick-up is available until 2 p.m.
Trade your regular Taco Tuesday for 25% off Takeout Tuesday at The Henry in Coronado (use code Tuesday25). Opt for entrees like the Harvest Bowl with tasty ingredients like melted sweet potato, caramelized cauliflower, Marcona almond pesto and cashew harissa. Or feed the whole family with The Henry's Rotisserie Chicken Family Meal for $29 (takeout only), which includes a large Caesar salad and roasted winter vegetables.
Newly opened Our Green Affair in Pacific Beach is putting a fun spin on salads, loaded sweet potatoes and healthy bowls. Check out the Taco 'Bout Us with roasted salmon, UniCorn with soy chorizo and veggies or the Thai Me Up salad with roasted chicken, Thai-inspired toppings and a spicy cashew dressing. Have a picky eater in your crew? No problem, Our Green Affair also offers a build-your-own option. Online ordering and pick-up is available.
Authentic Middle-Eastern street food is served up fresh and tasty at Tahini. Say good-bye to bland cheese sticks and introduce your future foodie to fresh-made Halloumi Cheese stix and Tahini's coveted fresh pita bread, baked daily without preservatives. Order online and choose falafel, chicken or steak shawarma on pita, bowl or salad. Delivery available via UberEats, GrubHub and others.
Good to know: You can also feel good about their commitment to the environment. Tahini uses eco-friendly, biodegradable packaging for to-go orders.
Say adios to grocery shopping and menu planning and let Sun Basket do the heavy lifting for dinnertime! Created by chefs and filled with healthy, organic ingredients, dinner will be ready to go in 6 minutes or less with their Fresh & Ready meals. A stress-saver for busy weeknights, these meals feature a complete dinner that is pre-cooked and packaged with no additional prep required.
Have a little more time on the weekends? Get the kids in on the dinnertime action with their Classic Meal Kits, which include pre-measured ingredients for meals ready in 15-40 minutes. Sun Basket meals can be tailored to your family's nutrition needs, including vegetarian, paleo, gluten-free and Quick & Easy, perfect for busy parents.
Mealtime is served up healthy and fast from Greenspot Salad Company with three locations around San Diego. Choose between superfood salads, wraps, flatbreads and bowls. The kids' menu includes healthy options like the Turkey Cheese Roll-Up on a whole-wheat tortilla with kids' sized salad or veggie dippers. Online ordering, delivery, takeout and curbside pick-up options make healthy family meals a breeze.
Give your usual Thai takeout a vegetarian (or vegan!) spin at Plumeria Vegetarian in University Heights. Your most carnivorous family members won't miss the meat with satisfying flavors in Thai favorites like Green Curry, Pad Thai and mock "chicken" satay. Entrees are available with tofu, vegetables or vegan duck, vegan chicken or vegan beef. Plumeria Vegetarian is MSG-free and uses organic, non-GMO and gluten free tofu locally produced by San Diego Soy Company.
When choosing meat as part of your family's healthy lifestyle, opt for high-quality and humanely raised. For this farm-to-fork philosophy, look no further than local purveyor Ranch 45 in Solana Beach. Taking care to know the source of their foods, Ranch 45 sells butcher boxes of Brandt Beef as well as mouthwatering meals prepared in their restaurant. Breakfast and lunch is served daily until 4 p.m. and dinner is available Thurs.-Sat. Order online for pick-up or delivery via Door Dash.
Editor’s Note: The availability of indoor dining has fluctuated significantly recently in counties in and around the city of Chicago. Please reach out to the restaurant before planning an in-person visit to inquire on procedures or support restaurants by ordering take-out or delivery.
Slurp it. Stir it. Make waves. Blow on it. Nibble the good stuff and use a straw for the rest. No wonder kids love soup; it’s so fun to eat. And it keeps us warm and cozy, which right now is a very good thing. (Can you even believe we’ve already seen snow?) In Chicago, soup comes in all kinds of varieties. From a Jewish deli with great Matzah balls to an Argyle Street pho haven, here is where to get your fix and support Chicago restaurants at the same time.
Urbanbelly
Chef Bill Kim’s original ramen restaurant is full of soups worth guzzling. The namesake ramen is a favorite with braised pork belly, mushrooms and egg. For a pint-sized pot, try the kids chicken noodle soup with thick udon noodles and crispy chicken in a mild broth. Housed in an artsy loft building, the space itself is a feast for the senses—communal tables, funky lighting and all.
R.J. Grunts
R.J. Grunts is the very first Lettuce Entertain You creation and holds the honor of having the very first salad bar in America. They only have two soups on the menu: Broccoli Cheddar and Chicken Noodle, but they are both the ultimate comfort foods. And, as a bonus, R.J. Grunts is just steps away from wintery fun at Lincoln Park Zoo.
Soupbox
Soupbox is small, with just a few tables, and the focus is on the cauldrons of soup from which you serve yourself. Twelve kinds of soup are served daily and you can try samples of them all. Ladle soup out into a bread bowl for an even tastier treat. The signature lobster bisque is perfect for adventurous eaters, and we guarantee they’ll be too busy scarfing down the broccoli and white cheddar soup that they’ll forget it has veggies. Bonus: You can get it delivered by DoorDash, UberEats, Postmates, Caviar or GrubHub for those souper cold days and they have vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.
2943 N. Broadway St., Lakeview; Online: soupbox.com
Artopolis
This café has a storybook of Greek specialties in a bright and open space. Kids love checking out the myriad of colorful pastries that line the bakery when you first walk in. The traditional soup—chicken and rice—is a must-order. The luscious lemon-y broth is studded with chunks of chicken and a smattering of white rice. Order it with the homemade bread and you have yourself the perfect winter lunch.
Max and Benny’s
Ask any bubbie and she’ll tell you that matzah ball soup is the cure for just about anything. This homey Jewish deli follows that train of thought and dishes out matzah balls so big your kids may mistake them for giant snowballs. Try the Mish Mosh, a ginormous bowl of chicken soup with a heaping of noodles, rice, kreplach, matzah balls, kasha and carrots. The kids’ menus double as coloring books for added mealtime fun.
Hai Yen
Venture to Argyle Street in Uptown for pho, a traditional Vietnamese soup made from beef stock and spices. It’s served in a number of restaurants up and down the strip, but our favorite is this modern, minimal spot. For the first-timer, try the Pho Tai, a beef noodle soup full of steak and noodles, and a side plate of Thai basil, bean sprouts, jalapeno and lime.
Larsa’s Fine Mediterranean Food
If you find yourself looking for a place to eat after ping-ponging from store to store in Westfield Old Orchard Shopping Center, it’s worth the short trek east to try this colorful, family-owned spot. Its lentil soup is made fresh daily and is a traditional (and healthy) favorite. Ask for fresh-from-the-oven pita bread and sop it up.
Frontera Grill
If you haven’t tried Frontera Grill’s chicken tortilla soup, you are missing out. Seriously. It will ruin you on all other chicken tortilla soups because very few compare. It’s light and brothy with just the right amount of kick. From the presentation—where it’s brought out in the copper pot and poured over tortilla chips and cheese right in front of you—down to the last slurp, you’ll be begging for more. Be sure if you hit up this favorite date night spot, you start with the soup. Tip: If you ever find yourself delayed at O’Hare, grab a bowl at Tortas Frontera in Terminals 1, 3 and 5.
Introducing food is one of the most exciting milestones in your child’s first year of life. But have you ever actually tasted store-bought baby food? Go ahead. Give it a try. Jar or pouch not tasting so fresh and healthy? After discovering that most baby food available today is highly processed and either overly sweet or too bland, Chicago mom of two Shibani Baluja started making her own food full of hearty, nutritious veggies, and light on fruits. Read on for the scoop on Shibani’s company, lil’gourmets and why it’s a win-win for both kids and busy parents.
Special offer: Try lil’gourmets for just $3 a meal by using code REDTRI3 with the purchase of two or more boxes. And to learn more visit lilgourmets.com.
The Scoop
After consulting with pediatricians, chefs and nutritionists, Shibani launched lil’gourmets to make her fresh and delicious meals conveniently available to parents of babies and toddlers. Instead of using mostly apples and bananas to cover up the taste of vegetables, Shibani opted to rely on spices to enhance the flavors of those vegetables. The result was spoonfuls of bold and earthy veggie goodness, naturally low in sugar but big on taste.
Why You’ll Both Love the Meals The meals are all 70-95% vegetables and beans and come in four flavorful varieties:
Organic Sweet Potato Curry: Made with 100% organic sweet potatoes, coconut milk, spinach, a squeeze of lemon and lime juice, and a blend of spices
Organic Moroccan Butternut Squash: Made with 100% organic butternut squash, carrots, chickpeas, a squeeze of tamarind and lemon, and a blend of spices
Organic Coconut Cauliflower Mash: Made with 100% organic cauliflower, carrots, peas, coconut milk, a squeeze of tamarind and lime, and a blend of spices
Organic Cinnamon Beets & Apples: Made with 100% organic beets, a bit of apple, a squeeze of lemon, and a hint of cinnamon and ginger
These chef-inspired flavors can help develop a young child’s curiosity and palate, while the minimal processing allows your baby to absorb the essential nutrients in the veggies to boost growing brains and bodies. Each 3.5 oz lil’gourmets cup exposes your little one to new tastes, textures, colors, and aromas, and can be served directly from the fridge or placed in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes.
A single serving packs enough nutritional punch to stand as a meal for baby, or to offer as a side dish for a hungry toddler or preschooler. Try Cinnamon Beets & Apples on the side of beef or substitute for an applesauce snack; let your toddler dip their grilled chicken in Sweet Potato Curry or Moroccan Butternut Squash; or pair Coconut Cauliflower Mash with a fish or grain, like quinoa or pita bread, or even sprinkle with ground cashews for a nutty flavor. Talk to your baby and let your child see how you think about, prepare, and enjoy food and family mealtime will take on a whole new dimension.
Benefits Beyond a Delicious and Healthy Meal The lil’gourmets servings are all packaged in clear cups so your baby will get lots of spoon-feeding and fine motor skills practice, plus plenty of chances to recognize satiety cues and relish parent/caretaker bonding. And, all that time you spend together with your baby in a highchair sharing a meal? Setting a positive relationship with food by providing healthy and hearty meals will help your kiddo blossom into a healthy and happy eater.
It's Convenient
The lil’gourmets model couldn’t be easier. The meals—ala-carte or subscription—are delivered refrigerated to your door, saving you time and energy to do all the other things you love doing. Just order a box of the organic veggie meals, store them in your fridge and your little one will enjoy fresh and flavorful foods every day. What’s more, lil’gourmets meals are made with only organic ingredients, just 3-5 grams of sugar per serving, and everything is non-GMO, vegan, preservative-free, and gluten-free. So you also save yourself any worry over what you're putting in your baby’s bowl.
Want to give it a taste? Try lil’gourmets for just $3 a meal by using code REDTRI3 at lilgourmets.com with the purchase of two or more boxes. And to learn more or see the list of local grocers they are sold at, visit lilgourmets.com.
If you ever find yourself with a couple of days with no plans and an itch to get out of town, then pack your bags and head to Long Beach for an adventure that is one part staycation, one part getaway and 100% fun for the whole family. A good idea any time of year, scroll below for the best eats, treats and things to do with kids in Long Beach, CA.
DAY ONE:
Tour the Queen Mary
Andie Huber
A technological and engineering feat, the Queen Mary set the standard for luxury liners in 1936. For the next 90 years, she transported dignitaries, celebrities and royalty from the UK to California and back again until her retirement in 1967. Nowadays she resides in Long Beach, celebrating her 50th year here this year! You can tour the boat at your own pace or take a tour with a docent, like the "The Steam and Steel" tour that takes you below the waterline to see the engine room and propeller box—parts of the ship one doesn't normally get to see.
Good to Know: Parking is $18 for the day but if you eat at one of the dining establishments, they'll validate your parking ticket for either a reduced fee or if you eat at Sir Winston's, it will be free. Most tours start around 11 a.m. so hit this spot first thing in the morning on your way into town, before it gets crowded or the parking lot too full. There's also free admission after 6 p.m. in case you want to come here at night.
1126 Queens Hwy. Long Beach, CA Online: queenmary.com
The Shipyard at the Queen Mary
Andie Huber
Of course no trip to the Queen Mary is complete without tracking down the world's Largest LEGO Brick Model Ship located in The Shipyard. The 26-foot, 250,000 LEGO brick replica of the luxurious ship is a sight to behold. It weighs over 600 pounds and took around 600 hours to make and may just inspire you and your family to do something as grand with all those LEGOS you have at home.
Insider Tip: A fun game of hide-n-seek: There's a white LEGO cat that moves around the ship—see if you can spot it!
Lunch at Michael's Downtown
Andie Huber
For authentic Italian fare that will have your kids singing, "That's amore," head to Michael's Downtown. This homage to the old country not only has a heavenly list of appetizers, and pastas, this must-visit spot also boasts some of the best pizza west of the East River.
Our tip? Order a bunch of plates to share—from the meatballs and prosciutto and burrata with pear to pizzas and pasta bolognese, you might find yourselves driving down to Michael's on a regular basis get your Italian fix.
Insider Tip: If the kids want to "make" their own pizza, ask the staff for dough. They'll bring out a ball and your little ones can pound it out into any shape they want, add the toppings and they'll toss it into the wood-fire oven just for them.
If you need some downtown, head to your hotel to check-in. The Residence Inn Marriott is located just a few minutes from the Queen Mary and is easily accessible to downtown Long Beach. The hotel has suites available so you can book a one or two-bedroom suite—optimal for families that also include a kitchenette with refrigerator.
Of course, for the kids, the pool is the main attraction and overlooks the harbor so even if you don't get in with your kids, you're guaranteed a lovely view.
Breakfast is included with your stay and offers everything a family might want in the morning—from strong coffee to DIY waffles with a toppings bar.
Cost: Rooms start at $350 per night
600 Queensway Dr. Long Beach Online: marriott.com
Ride a Gondola
Ashley R. via Yelp
In case you didn't know, Long Beach has a set of canals that rival those in Venice Beach and that other boot-shaped country. For a little tour of the town, old-world style, head over to Gondola Getaway for a 60-minute ride around the waterways that make up Naples Island. If you find yourself here during Christmas time, you just may see Santa riding around as well.
Insider Tip: Bring your own beverages, some handy snacks, and a cozy sweater and jacket.
Cost: Private cruise for four is $160
5437 E. Ocean Blvd. Long Beach Online: gondolagetawayinc.com
George's Greek Cafe
Andie Huber
If you are looking for a good way to introduce Greek food to your kids, then George's is the way to do it. The kid-friendly menu has an assortment of options that goes beyond burgers and fries (like rice and chicken kabobs) and the main menu is diverse enough that you are bound to find something that even picky eaters will like.
The vegetarian combo appetizer was enough to feed one adult and two children and included vegetarian dolmathes, falafel, spanakopites and kalamata olives. It also came with a side of Tzantziki sauce, humus, and pita bread.
Of course you can't go to a Greek restaurant and not order saganaki—the flaming cheese—a fun (and delicious) spectacle that will have everyone shouting "Opa!"
135 Pine Ave. Long Beach Online: georgesgreekcafe.com
DAY TWO:
Aquarium of the Pacific
Andie Huber
The fourth busiest aquarium in the US, there are more than 11,000 animals and 50 exhibits for you to explore. With so much to see and do, we wrote an entire "Insider's Guide to the Aquarium of the Pacific." And while you can spend a whole day or two checking out every nook and cranny, a couple of can't miss exhibits include: Sammy & Ray 3D and Hurricane 3D playing in the Ocean Theater, and a visit to the new animals on view like the bigeye octopuses, spiny king crabs, and a sea slug now swimming around in the Deepwater exhibit in the Northern Pacific Gallery. And if it's an especially hot day, cool off at Our Water Future exhibit that shows how the LA basin gets and captures water.
Insider Tip: Knowing that this is a popular destination, we recommend getting here as early as possible (it opens at 9 a.m.).
100 Aquarium Way Long Beach 562-590-3100 Online: aquariumofpacific.org
Explore Pike Outlets at Rainbow Harbor
Andie Huber
Long Beach's newest shopping destination, this waterfront area next to The Aquarium of the Pacific, has retail, dining and entertainment venues to satisfy everyone in the family. Check out the carousel (with its very own Zoltar wish-granting machine for any fans of the movie "Big") and a Ferris wheel that'll give you a bird's eye view of this lovely harbor town.
If you didn't grab something to eat at the aquarium, some lunch options include Bubby Gump Shrimp Co. (seems like it's a Tom Hanks movie-themed trip right?), Gladstones, and California Pizza Kitchen.
Good to Know: Park in the parking structure and take your ticket with you as most dining places will validate.
95 S. Pine St. Long Beach Online: visitlongbeach.com
Shorline Aquatic Park
Andie Huber
Burn off some energy after lunch, and walk along the harbor and head to Shorline Aquatic Park where a real lighthouse stands on a hill. Bonus points: Once you reach the lighthouse there is some interesting history about the area and the Queen Mary that you can read as you walk around it.
And while there is some sand, this park is more for running around the wide open spaces and checking out some of the best views of the Queen Mary, the new and improved exterior of the Aquarium of the Pacific and Shoreline Harbor Village.
308 Golden Shore Long Beach Online: longbeach.gov
Take a Harbor Cruise
Andie Huber
Now that everyone has had a good runaround, and watched the boats come in and out of the harbor, now's the time to jump on a Harbor Breeze boat tour for a 45-minute narrated tour of the harbor and its history. From the boat, you'll be able to see sea lions playing or lounging in the harbor, get a closer view of the outside of the Queen Mary, along with a cozy close-up of some massive cargo and container ships. If you have older kids, take the whale-watching tour where you can see migrating Pacific Gray Whales, Humpbacks and more as they migrate.
Insider Tip: While it may be tempting to sit on the upper deck, make sure you have adequate coats and sunscreen. It's both sunny and breezy cold up there. Of course you can retreat the hull of the ship. There are snacks and drinks on board for purchase.
Cost: Kids 5-11 $6; Adults $15; Under 5 are free
100 Aquarium Way, Dock #2 Long Beach Online: 2seewhales.com
After the harbor boat tour, walk or drive to Shoreline Village where a colorful mash-up of restaurants, arcades, souvenir and sweet shops are built along the harbor. At the tip is Parker's Lighthouse, a dreamy seafood restaurant with enviable views and a two-story wine cellar that is the perfect ending to a long day. Here you can enjoy the sunset, a glass of wine, and all the fresh seafood you desire.
On the way out, don't forget to stop at Pirate's Cove for swashbuckling gear, Rocky Mountain Chocolate for some after-dinner sweets and the Pelican Pier Pavilion that houses an antique carousel along with arcade games.
Getting to downtown Long Beach, CA is easy. The biggest hurdle will be traffic, so plan your timing accordingly, especially if you are getting there via the 405.
Parking is expensive. To mitigate the cost, make sure you take your parking ticket with you and get it validated wherever you can. There are also two local services, the AquaLink ($1 per ride) and AquaBus ($5 per ride) that run year round and stop at all the major tourist spots.
This trip was paid for by the Long Beach Convention & Visitors Bureau all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
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In the world of plant-based proteins that appeal to people of all ages, hummus is a perennial favorite—and rightfully so. It’s an always flavorful sandwich spread and a dip for the ages (as we all know, kids just love to dip). And, yes, you can pick it up at a store and it will serve its purpose just fine.
Once you’ve blended your own chickpea chowder (catchy, right?), it might be hard to go back. So, how do you make hummus? There’s more than one way! All it takes is a blender (or a food processor) and a few minutes. Here’s our no-fail guide on how to hummus like a chickpea champ.
The Basic Ingredients
A pretty classic take is chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper and paprika, but here’s another one that’s easy and delicious!
Put this in a blender (or food processor) and adjust amounts to taste:
Roasted eggplant (4 Japanese)
Tahini, about 1/3 cup
1 can garbanzo beans with about half of the liquid
2 cloves crushed garlic
1 tbsp sea salt
Juice of 1 lemon
Olive oil (about 1/4 cup)
Mint leaves (about 30 leaves)
Turmeric, 1 tsp
Blend until smooth, surround with whatever you want to dip–pita bread, crackers, vegetables—there you go!
How to Take It Up One Pinkalicious Notch
And now, for something gorgeously garbanzo, not to mention spectacularly easy. Who doesn’t want to eat something pleasantly pink that’s healthy and plant-based? Beet hummus checks all the boxes. It tastes fantastic, its full of protein and it makes quite the design statement.
Here’s the drill: Roast one small beet—yes, just one—or even boil it. (Cook for 30 to 40 minutes either way.)
Toss it in the blender with basic hummus ingredients: chick peas, tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper (see above). Add your ingredient to taste.
If you’re allergic to tahini or you don’t like it lemony or garlicky, drop one of those ingredients. It’ll be alright. And it’ll be pink.
We're Shelley Onderdonk and Rebecca Bloom. A veterinarian and a lawyer-turned-writer walk into a kitchen… We aren’t chefs and that’s exactly the point. We have a lot to share about food-smart living with our own young-adult children and other people and their children, too. Together, we wrote The Anti-Cookbook: Easy, Thrifty Recipes for Food-Smart Living.
