Healthy smoothies for kids

Smoothies are fun and easy to make. And as a new grandfather, I'm starting to think more about healthy foods that appeal to kids. Tomorrow, I will have the opportunity to talk to 70 children of colleagues at a Kaiser Permanente bring-your-child to workday.

The children will be able to view one of the three short films that make up The Weight of the Nation for Kids series. Then, I'll talk to them about how they can help out in the kitchen at home and make some healthy and delicious snacks while they're at it. 

Basic recipes for smoothies can include frozen fruit, fresh fruit, fruit juice, milk (or soy or coconut milk) and ice. More adventurous eaters can even include dark, leafy greens like spinach or kale.

ChopChop Family is a favorite resource for healthy recipes children can make on their own. Here are a couple of recipes to try with your children, grandchildren, nieces or nephews:

• Blueberry Smoothie 
• Berry Bold Banana Smoothie 
• Keen Peachy Smoothie