Introducing oily fish into a child’s diet can be a tricky task, as most parents and practitioners will tell you. However, here at Greenside Children's Centre we have done just that, with great results!
In May 2008, we introduced mackerel a little at a time, starting with half a fillet per 10 children, flaked into pasta bake with grated cheese topping. As the weeks went by, we increased the amount of fish and decreased the amount of cheese, and……hey presto – now all 35 lunch timers enjoy eating the mackerel pasta.
We experienced similar success with our salmon fishcakes and Omega 3 fish finger sandwiches, both are child friendly and full of the goodness they need.
We now have oily fish on the menu each week – go to “menus” to view.
We have seen a difference in the children – they remain engrossed for longer periods in their chosen area, and their social interaction is more meaningful and tolerance levels have improved.
Now, this could be put down to the oily fish diet or that many of the children are moving up to school shortly, and maturing as expected! Whatever the reason, we shall be keeping oily fish on our menus.
We would encourage you to be realistic. Children need time to accept new tastes and textures. Treat this as a mother of a young baby would treat weaning. Don’t give up at the first hurdle.
Go on, give it a try!!
