Small trick, lasting impact: How kids eat more vegetables

According to a new study by researchers at Humboldt University Berlin and the University of Nairobi, children eat significantly more vegetables when they hear stories about magical foods. The effect was studied in an experiment with kindergarten children and shows how stories can have a positive influence on eating behavior.

The experiment:

As part of the study with 80 kindergarten children, half of the group heard a story in which a hero was given special powers or was cured by magical vegetables. The other half, the control group, heard a similar story that did not involve any magical vegetables. Over the following two weeks, the children were regularly offered snacks such as fruit, vegetables, cakes and cookies. The result was clear: up to 80 % of the children of the vegetable group increased their consumption of healthy snacks such as carrots and bell peppers.

Long-term effect through a single story

It was remarkable that this positive effect could be observed for up to three weeks after the story was told. Study leader Werner Sommer emphasized that even a single 20-minute story could have a lasting impact on children's snack choices. “Stories are a powerful tool to promote healthy habits in a playful way,” he explained to New Scientist.

A simple solution for parents and teachers?

The results of this study could inspire parents and teachers to use similar imaginative stories in everyday life to get children interested in healthy food in a playful way. Instead of pressure, persuasion or forcing, the creative use of stories and fairy tales offers an uncomplicated and effective way of increasing children's interest in vegetables.

Cultural elements promote healthier habits

The study demonstrates how strongly social and cultural approaches such as stories can positively influence eating habits. A small trick with a big impact – and a simple solution for parents who want healthier eating habits for their children.