If dinnertime doesn't always run smoothly at your place, don't worry – you're not alone! Kids wouldn't be kids if they didn't throw the occasional tantrum at the table, or refuse to eat a certain variety of green vegetable. But there are ways to minimise the dinnertime dramas, by thinking creatively and making meals as 'kid-friendly' as possible.  Here's how...

Make them the chef. Turn kitchen time into playtime by getting the kids involved. It could be something as simple as stirring or measuring, or you could put older kids in charge of a salad. They'll be inspired by learning something new, and more likely to love the meal that they've helped create!

Get sneaky! If they can't see it, chances are they won't know it's there. If your kids avoid greens like the plague, or dislike some basic ingredients like onions or mushrooms, try chopping them extra finely, or even puréeing them before adding them to the mix. It's a very effective way of making sure they get all the good stuff they need without kicking up a fuss!

Presentation is key. Ask any professional chef. But when cooking for kids, aim for giggles instead of gourmet. Try shaping salads into smiley faces, making patterns out of peas or creating sandwich pyramids. It'll be smiles all round, followed by full tummies to boot.

Accessorize. Fun cutlery, plates with faces on them or their favourite characters, or even placemats that they've made themselves will all help make dinner time that little bit more fun. And don't underestimate the power of a curly straw as a bargaining chip – they'll be sure to eat their vegetables in exchange for one of those!

Making something that tastes great and that's good for them is the most important thing when cooking for kids.

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These articles are provided for interest only. Individual circumstances may vary, so be sure to seek professional advice.