This blog talks about food and the game I play with my family in making different meals each weeknight, but it is really about my family. We are unique and we are ordinary.

I have two children with very different personalities and needs just like many of you. I try not to dwell on their differences but my daughter wears hearing aids, lip reads, and is learning sign language. But, she loves to Irish dance. It is not easy for her but she never quits. Oh, believe me she gets frustrated because she can’t hear the music or the noise in hard shoes is so loud that what she could normally hear she loses. My son has Autism and ADHD.  He loves to be part of group even though it is a struggle for him. The other day he had a moment of clarity when he was talking with us. He stopped and looked at us and said, “I’ve over used that joke haven’t I?” Yes! He was praised for understanding the social context.

Yet, they are normal. They have their own unique preferences for clothing and food just like other kids. I have no magic bean on how I got my kids to be fearless tasters of new foods other than it began with our first pediatrician. She told us, “Start with bitter foods peas and green beans. Don’t start with fruits because kids will come to expect sweet tastes and won’t eat the bitter vegetables as easily. And, there are no kid foods.” Both of those items I think set us off on the right path for us.

I still need to get dinner to the table quickly many nights. Stir fries with different vegetables, proteins and sauces are a great way to do this.

Verdict:

This was a huge success. The kids loved the sauce and shrimp. Both kids ate two servings and my son took the leftovers in his lunch the next day. Yes, we pack him dinner leftovers most days for his lunch at school. He loves it and doesn’t care what the other kids are eating.

I served this over brown rice.