Healthy Kid's Parties By Heidi du Preez

A healthy kiddy party…is that possible?

Most health freak moms dread kids parties. What kind of snacks will there be at the party? My child will get a sugar-rush and bounce off the walls! They can’t drink that cool drink - it’s loaded with colourants and preservatives...

These fears are real and well substantiated. However, there are two sides to the coin.

Firstly, if your children are well fed at home and know what is good for them, they will not overindulge in all the bad sweet stuff at a party.

Great was even my own surprise when my 3-year old said no to a piece of my son’s gluten-free sugar-free chocolate party cake and turned around to dip a piece of celery in hummus!

Secondly, there is much that any hostess can do to offer more healthy alternatives at a kid's party.

But how do I present a kiddy party that is fun and healthy?

Be innovative and creative and set your own preconceived party ideas aside.
 

1 . For drinks, opt for homemade iced teas by mixing rooibos with a small amount of fruit juice (ratio 4:1) and lots of ice; or make a punch by adding small pieces of fruit to the iced tea.

2 . A healthy chocolate smoothie made with raw cacao would be enjoyed as a ‘chocolate milkshake’ and frozen yoghurt or fruit ice lollies are a refreshing treat on a hot summer’s day.

3 . As sweet treats, fruit kebabs, date balls or chickpea fudge are healthier choices, and a ‘fruit and chocolate’ fondue is always a great hit!

4 . For the party pack, make a tasty trailmix for the kids to nibble on.

5 . Seeing that more and more kids are gluten- or wheat-intolerant, try a delicious gluten- or wheat-free chocolate or carrot party cake, which both the parents and kids will enjoy.

6 . Or be creative like the moms in Knysna and consider a fruit tower cake!

7 . On the savoury side, there are many healthy options. Homemade salted popcorn and salted Lay’s crisps go a long way.

8 . Make an enticing platter with crudités and dips, small blocks of cheese, sausage rolls and other savoury treats.

The healthiest ingredient though for any kid's party remains an exciting and fun environment where they can be active with lots of free play!

Heidi du Preez is a Nutritional Therapist, practising in Hout Bay, Cape Town. She holds a Masters degree in Food Science and is the author of the health recipe book Naturally Nutritious Wholefood Cookbook – see www.naturalnutrition.co.za