Picky eaters are a constant source of frustration for parents. Whether they are as specific as refusing to eat anything but chicken nuggets cut into dinosaur shapes with tater tots on the side or as pliable as being amiable with any variety of chicken tender and potato product, picky eaters are cause for planning.
One of the best things about cruise ships is the typically eclectic array of dining options available. These span the dining buffets to mid-tier restaurants to restaurants you need to book far in advance. The good news is these specialized restaurants often focus on one type of cuisine, like steak or sushi, where the general dining rooms typically offer a wide range of options.
Before your cruise, do your best to catalogue the things your picky eater will and won’t eat. If that limited menu includes anything typically included on a child’s menu, there is a good chance the general buffet’s kids section will have it. For example, Norwegian Cruise Line has several options for passengers. Doing the proper research for whichever cruise line the family is taking will go a long way toward booking a cruise to please the entire family.
Dining Hall on the Norwegian Cruise Line Pearl. Photo: Photo: Sean Pavone – Dreamstime.com
If the rest of the family wants to indulge in some specialty dining, do not be afraid to take the picky eater to a buffet before the rest of the family’s reservation. If only one person is eating, a trip to the casual buffet dining room can take just a few minutes, allowing the family to make it to their reservation, or dining room, in just a few minutes.
Cruises can also be great places to break down walls regarding what kinds of foods kids will eat. Convincing children to try new things, especially when it is similar in color and texture to current favorites, will be easier if they see a big brother or sister enjoying that same food.
Pleasing picky eaters will never be easy. Children are stubborn and can become set in their ways in a way that is near disturbing to onlookers and people who don’t spend a lot of time around them. If kids always have the option to return to one item they like on the cruise, even if it is a treat like ice cream, they can be convinced to eat throughout the rest of the cruise. Cruises offer the opportunity to try new things, especially for kids who have not tasted many worldly cuisines, but breaking through the picky shell can be tough.
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedParents
Apr 24, 2024Treat Mom to Tea at The St. Regis Atlanta
Are you planning family travel to Atlanta for Mother’s Day this year? For those in the area on May 11 and 12, celebrate mom with a Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea at The St. Regis Atlanta. Afternoon tea is a hallmark at the property and this year’s Mother’s Day version will honor Audrey Hepburn and her iconic role in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.
Sponsored Content
United Airlines Celebrates its First Class of United Aviate Graduates
As the only major U.S. airline to own a flight school, United Airlines already hit a major milestone, and now the carrier celebrates another important — and historic — step as the inaugural class of United Aviate Academy pilots graduates, leading the next generation of aviators. The 51 students in the graduating class were majority, at 80 percent, women and people of color — another stride toward United’s goal of training 5,000 new pilots by 2030 with half women or POC.
Destinations / North America
Apr 23, 2024What’s New in Billings, Montana, This Spring and Summer
Plan your spring or summer family travel to Billings, Montana, this year. The largest city in the state offers plenty of family-friendly fun.
Destinations / North America
Apr 23, 2024Where to Tiptoe Through Tulips in the United States
First brought to the United States by Dutch immigrants in the late 1600s, tulips have become a colorful symbol of spring throughout the country and a popular spring and summer spot for family travelers. You don’t need to travel far to find them blooming in front yards and, in spring, displays of tulips paint parks and botanic gardens from Maine to Texas. A few places go all out with annual tulip festivals that are perfect spring trips for families.
Sponsored Content
Unearth Seoul’s Hidden Gems
Filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, Seoul invites travelers to unearth its many gems, and Seoul Tourism Organization is here to help travelers do just that. Through thoughtfully created initiatives like the Theme Tourism County Competition, Seoul Tourism Organization works closely with local districts to identify and showcase what makes each district unique and charming in all seasons.
Destinations / Caribbean
Apr 23, 2024Family Fun Awaits at Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives
Celebrate the warm weather with family travel to the sun-kissed shores of Aruba. Here, you’ll find Divi & Tamarijn Aruba All Inclusives, a family-friendly resort filled with endless activities for all ages. This property features 10 all-inclusive dining options, four freshwater pools, eight bars and more.
ShareThis