Healthy Eating For Healthy Kids

As a parent, I worry that I am feeding my children the right things.  Yes they like chocolate and sweets what child doesn't? They get those in moderation of course, but I am always on the look out for something new, tasty and healthy for them to try.

 Nairn's have teamed up with nutritionist, Christine Bailey, to come up with their very own recipe book for toddlers and children centred around their oatcakes.  Easy for children to help make and very good for them too!  Here are 8 top reasons why you should include oats in your child's diet.

1. Energy booster - Slow release carbs
2. Nutritional powerhouse - full of vitamins and minerals for example folic acid and Vitamin E
3. Boosts mood - Good source of vitamin B6 which increases serotonin levels
4. Improves concentration - Slow release carbs fuels the brain
5. Digestive health - provides good bacteria
6. Good nights sleep - Oats can boost the levels of the sleep hormone melatonin
7. Maintain healthy weight - eating oats can control healthy appetite
8. Naturally healthy - easy and nutritious snack for kids on the go

I was lucky enough to receive a box full of yummy goodies from oat cakes with sun flowers seeds to the little lunch box snacks, Astro bites.  Astro bites, berry blast, come in handy little packets which are perfect for a mid morning snack or as an addition to the kids lunch box.  They are made with wholegrain oats and fruit pieces and are in the shape of space rockets and other characters. Both my children loved these and being honest, were the first snack to go!

One day when it was wet and windy outside, which seems to be typical of the Scottish summer, I got the kids in the kitchen and asked what they would like on their oatcakes.  They chose apples, mustard, ham and chicken slices.  Here is a picture of their creation.

Their yummy little creations did not last long and I will admit I was delighted to see them try something new. I love the booklet, aimed at children aged 2 plus, as there are loads of great hints, tips and recipes that even I would like to try.  There's even a section for snacks on the go.

If you would like to find out more about the products Nairn's offer head over to their website You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter

To find out more about Christine Bailey, visit her website here