Growing children need a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of protein, zinc, and B vitamins, all of which can be found in red meat. Introducing hamburgers, steak, and other beef dishes into your child’s diet at an early age promotes healthy development and can even prevent some common medical conditions. Keep reading to find out how and when you should start feeding your kids red meat.

When Children Can Start Eating Beef

As soon as children start getting teeth, they can start trying little pieces of burger or steak, which is usually between their first or second birthdays. By the time they turn two, your kids should be having at least a few ounces of meat every day, with enough nutrients to fuel their rapid physical and emotional development.

How to Feed Your Children Red Meat

Most kids are generally averse to trying new foods and experiencing different textures, so they might shy away from even a tender steak or juicy hamburger. However, keep trying and let them see how much you enjoy it, and cut their food small enough to prevent choking. In general, each piece should be no bigger than half-an-inch on its longest side.

How to Get Creative With Red Meat

Many small children don’t like the texture of steak or even burgers, even if they’re already eating chicken or fish. Mixing a bit of ground beef in their favorite pasta sauce or putting a thin slice of meat on a grilled cheese sandwich will help them get acclimated to the taste and ensure they get the essential nutrients they need.

With a unique grilling method and a full menu full of delicious options, Western Sizzlin Restaurant has been serving up delicious steaks, burgers, and seafood for over 50 years. Their fun family environment and one-of-a-kind flavors make this a fantastic place to introduce your children to the very best meat dishes in town. Visit their website to find your nearest location, or call (479) 968-1757 to reach their restaurant in Russellville, AR. To reach their Springdale location, call (479) 750-3663, follow their Facebook for more tips and advice, or just bring the family in to taste their amazing steaks yourselves.