They need a certain amount of fat for development, especially for brain development. Variety is the spice of life. We all know we should eat fruits and vegetables but if the only one you eat is corn you are missing the boat. You can't get all the nutrition you need from one source, and a vitamin pill just doesn't cut it either. Offer a wide variety of foods in all the food groups with emphasis on colorful fruits and vegetables and whole grains.
Meal planning saves time and money.
You will be less likely to rely on fast foods or convenience foods that are high in fat and salt, and low in nutrients, if you plan ahead. When kids are hungry, let them eat. Give your kids a healthy snack like string cheese, fruit, carrot sticks or yogurt and consider it to be part of the meal to come. By asking kids to ignore their hunger signals, you may be setting them up for future problems. The children in poor countries will still be hungry whether your child cleans his plate or not.