How to plan a kid friendly picnic

1. Choose a location with open space where the kids can run around. Plan outdoor activities such as a scavenger hunt.
2. Prepare bite sized portions. It's a good way to get them to try new foods.

Hosting a multigenerational thanksgiving

Consider having a separate table for the kids, especially if your tables are small or you plan on using your find china. If that doesn't work for you you can make one end grown ups and the other end children. For the kids use unbreakable plates and cups. You can line the table with paper to catch any spills. To keep kids busy have them present a thanksgiving show at the end of the meal. It will be a memory that everyone will remember.

turkey shaped sandwich for kids

Turkey plays a duel role in this creative sandwich developed by parents magazine.

Use a glass to cut circles out of 2 pieces of bread. Make a sandwich with turkey and cheese. Insert strips of bell peppers under the top round of the sandwich so they stick out like feathers. Cut a small rectangle piece of bread and attach with mayo vertically in the center of the sandwich. Use chopped raisins for eyes.

vegetable mix ins

another great way to get kids to expand their taste buds is to mix in new items with favorites. here are some suggestions:

- zucchini to corn bread
- squash to potatoes
- red peppers to corn
- cauliflower to cheese
- brussels sprouts to bacon
- edamame to oranges
- mushroons to feta

chocolate play dough

What's better than play dough? Play dough you can eat. Here's our recipe for chocolate play dough.

1 1/2 pounds chocolate chips
2/3 cup corn syrup
1 cup cocoa powder

line a rimmed baking sheet with waxed paper. melt the chocolate and mix in the corn syrup. transfer to the baking sheet and refrigerate overnight. cut the dough into portions and play.

veg out with the kids

do you have picky eaters? use these tips to help them eat more vegetables.

cucumber ribbons - peel the cucumber in strips using a grater. kids will love the shape.

broccoflower - use broccoli and orange slices to create an edible flower.

get minty - add different flavors to veggies like mint or lemon or even coconut. kids will love the taste.

soup it up - lots of kids love soup for whatever reason. this is a great way to get those veggies into their diets.

"fry them" - cut carrots into a french fry shape. they might be a hit.