The Greatest Blessing for your ChildrenDear parents,It is most comforting when parents see their children grow up in health and be able to enjoy every birthday celebration in love and laughter. Birthday is indeed a very special occasion. At such an occasion of great signi�cance, parents are advised to organise the birthday party with tact, so that children can learn and practise to make the right food choices to form part of their healthy eating habits. The future of our children depends on parents and care-givers to create for them a healthy supportive environment. To help children lead a healthy lifestyle and foster a positive attitude towards life is the greatest gift we can ever give to kids. Therefore, we should always live by the principles of healthy eating, be they on birthdays or during festival times.

Here are some tips for dads and moms to consider during birthdays and festivals:Provide “3 less” (i.e. less fat/oil, less salt and less sugar) food, in particular fresh and natural food. As children love colourful snacks with attractive look, you can make attractive dishes from organising colourful fruit and vegetables cut into special shapes. This will help to increase their desire to consume more fruit and vegetables.

Avoid giving unhealthy food that is high in fat, salt or sugar (e.g. sweets, �zzy drinks, chips, chicken wings, etc.) to children on festive occasions to avoid linking this type of food with happy mood, making it dif�cult for them to form healthy eating habits.

Celebration is more than food. As children love to play, you may organise healthful and interesting activities such as hiking and outdoor activities for a memorable day together.

Stickers, drawing tools, storybooks and educational toys are popular among children. These items, rather than food, can be used as souvenirs, gifts or rewards instead.

Children love to imitate parents, so please set an example for your children on festive occasions or during other celebrations, by practising healthy eating with them.

You are right! Rearing children has always been a learning process that is both challenging and demanding. Apart from improving the dietary environment at home, you can also get involved in the school meal service to ensure a healthy campus for your children. If you should be invited to help out in school birthday parties, remember to introduce only the right snacks which are healthy and natural. Say “NO” to junk food! As the parent of your smart kid, this is your time to make the wise move!

Best regards,EatSmart Doggie

If you want to learn more about birthday party snacks, please visit our website at

www.startsmart.gov.hk and download our recipes.

Hi kids, please help me find out 10 differences

from these two pictures and name the fruits.