Tips for Getting Your Kids to Eat Sushi

Kids are notoriously picky eaters, and since even some adults won't eat sushi, it follows that many kids won't either. That's a shame, because it's healthy and kid-friendly: in this age of rampant childhood obesity, it is a light but filling meal and it's easy for little fingers to handle. So here are the top tips for getting your kids to eat this yummy style of food.

Start when your children are young. I had sushi recently with a friend and her three kids, all under the age of six. They dived in like it was the best stuff they'd ever had, because they had been eating it all their lives. They thought it was just as natural as eating macaroni and cheese.

Choose a kid-friendly restaurant. Many sushi places are intended as much for socializing as for eating sushi. Those places aren't likely to view your children with a friendly eye, and they will probably let you know that in some subtle way. And uncomfortable kids are cranky kids! However, there are many sushi places, especially out in the suburbs, that welcome children. Choose one with lots of space and obvious kid-friendly touches, like high chairs. If your children are well-behaved, the restaurant staff will probably be thrilled to see them, since kids aren't the most common sight in a sushi eatery.

Don't act like sushi is anything out of the ordinary. So many people make a big production about how they could never eat sushi, and so many people make a big production about how kids don't like "weird" foods. Since children's reactions are based on those of the adults around them, expressing these opinions in their presence will make them think that way, too. If you want your kids to eat sushi (and I assume you do, since you are reading this article), just pretend it is your standard American fare.

Choose from more than one area of the menu. Sushi restaurants have a lot more to offer than just raw fish. Simple dishes like gyoza and vegetable tempura are a good way to start off with kids, perhaps with one or two pieces of Mom or Dad's sushi on the side.

Start simple. When you finally get to the sushi, choose the plain items with a familiar look first. Tamago (egg), avocado, or California rolls are a great beginning. You can work up to the more exotic fare on your second visit.

Don't forget dessert. Even a kid who's really not sure about this sushi stuff will probably get excited about a banana tempura roll covered in chocolate sauce and whipped cream. But, just like any other meal, make them eat some of the good stuff first!

I hope these tips are successful in helping you introduce your kids to the great world of sushi. And remember that an introduction to sushi is good way to open up a conversation about other cultures and their practices and history. Have fun!