If you're a parent, you've probably been there: the dinner table standoff. One broccoli floret. Two big eyes. Zero bites.

Getting kids to eat their fruits and veggies can feel like a never-ending battle — but it doesn't have to be. With a little creativity, a dash of fun, and maybe even a unicorn or two, you can turn healthy habits into something your kids actually look forward to.

At Maddy & Apollo, we believe wellness should feel like magic, not a chore. So today, we’re sharing some fun ways to get kids to eat veggies — with a sprinkle of imagination (and a whole lot of color).

What Does “Eat the Rainbow” Actually Mean?

"Eat the rainbow" isn't just a fun phrase — it's a simple way to teach kids (and grown-ups!) that different-colored fruits and vegetables have different vitamins and benefits.

Red foods like strawberries and tomatoes help the heart.
Orange ones like carrots are great for eyes.
Greens like broccoli? Packed with power for growing bodies.
Purples, yellows, blues — they all play a part in helping kids feel their best.

The more colors on the plate, the better. But what if your kiddo is firmly Team Beige?

Why Do Kids Resist Veggies?

You're not imagining it: many kids have a real aversion to veggies. Sometimes it’s the taste or texture, sometimes it’s just… because it’s green.

But here’s the good news: when healthy food is introduced through play, stories, and creativity — kids are way more likely to try it.

That’s where we come in.

Creative & Fun Ways to Get Kids to Eat Veggies

Here are some tried-and-tested ideas to bring more fun (and more veggies) to the table:

1. Tell a Story on Their Plate

Turn snack time into story time. Use sliced veggies to make rainbow gardens, broccoli “trees,” or cucumber “lily pads” for cherry tomato “frogs.” Give your creations names and personalities. It might sound silly — but that's the point. Kids eat with their imagination first.

2. Cook Together (Even if It's Messy)

Let your child be the “Veggie Chef of the Day.” Washing, stirring, arranging — even just choosing which color veggies go on the plate can give them ownership. When they help make it, they’re more likely to taste it.

3. Color & Learn About the Rainbow First

Before introducing new veggies, build excitement through play and stories. That’s exactly why we created our new coloring book Maddy & Apollo’s Magical Coloring Adventure with Luna the Unicorn.

In this vibrant, wellness-inspired adventure, kids follow Maddy, Apollo, and their unicorn friend Luna through a magical farm where eating the rainbow unlocks powers like kindness, courage, and helping others. It’s a screen-free way to spark curiosity about fruits, veggies, and healthy habits — through coloring and storytelling.

By the time they finish the adventure, don’t be surprised if they start asking about purple carrots or red peppers!

4. Serve Veggies Differently

Change up the format — raw, roasted, spiralized, blended into smoothies, or cut into stars with cookie cutters. Presentation makes a huge difference. Even a simple dip like hummus or yogurt can turn a “no thanks” into a “maybe just one bite.”

5. Celebrate Small Wins

If they try one new veggie, that’s a win. Keep it low-pressure. Make it normal, fun, and no big deal if they say no today. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s progress.

Tie It All Together with Story + Play

Kids thrive on play. They learn through stories. And when it comes to forming healthy habits, the more joyful and hands-on you can make it, the better. That’s why our mission at Maddy & Apollo is to blend wellness with wonder.

If you’re ready to bring more color (and fewer dinner-time battles) into your home, check out our newest release:

Maddy & Apollo’s Magical Coloring Adventure with Luna the Unicorn

A joyful, screen-free journey into the magic of healthy habits — where kindness, curiosity, and eating fruit saves the day.

Because when kids feel connected to what they’re learning — and laughing while they do it — the lessons stick.

Final Thoughts

Getting kids to eat veggies doesn’t have to be a struggle. With a little imagination, a lot of color, and some magical storytelling, you can turn healthy habits into happy ones.

Ready to Color Your Own Rainbow?

Explore our newest coloring book:

Maddy & Apollo’s Magical Coloring Adventure with Luna the Unicorn – available now in the shop!

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