Hefty Zoo Pals have the fun solution to make mealtime less stressful
As many parents appreciate, mealtime may not be as simple as it could be. From picky eaters to pushing that food around the plate, the struggle to get the bite off the fork and into a mouth could be more difficult than wrangling cats. Hefty Zoo Pals wants to bring a little fun back to the table one plate at a time.
Growing up, some parents might have said, “don’t play with your food” at the table. While no one should be shooting peas across at their brother or just swirling mashed potatoes around the plate, there is something to be said about having fun with food.
Over the years, many chefs, food professionals, and just regular parents have stood by the concept that getting kids involved with their meals makes them more excited to eat that food on the plate. By having them become invested in the process, they want to pick up those carrots, take a forkful of that casserole, or otherwise clean their plate.
According to Dr. Kim Van Dusen, a licensed therapist, registered play therapist, and mother of two, “Children learn most effectively through meaningful, playful experiences, which help them regulate emotions and shape their understanding of life. Playing with their food allows them to explore their senses, develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and build trust in their food while discovering their preferences. The warm, colorful, and friendly animals on Zoo Pals plates—such as cows, frogs, tigers and ladybugs—are relatable to children, encouraging them to trust and experiment with their food. These Meal Kits amp up that excitement and curiosity, making them perfect for parents of young kids!”
Hefty Zoo Pals wants to bring that fun back to the table. From the specialty shaped plates to the cute animal designs, mealtimes are less of a chore and more of an event.
At the start of back-to-school season, the brand is offering special meal kits. Both young, and not so young, will appreciate the special offering.
As Jen Ganahl, Senior Brand Manager with Hefty Tableware said, “We originally designed Hefty Zoo Pals characters to bring joy to mealtime, and to provide a helping hand to parents with picky eaters. The end of summer is often a hectic period for parents as they work to establish, or re-establish, routines for their children. Our Zoo Pals Meal Kits aim to simplify mealtime and help parents ensure kids eat well to support their growth and development.”
The special Hefty Zoo Pals Meal Kits include Zoo Pals Plates, Custom Zoo Pals Sandwich Cutters, Zoo Pals Cups, and Custom Zoo Pal Coasters. The giveaway runs now through August 28, 2024.
And, if you do not win, you can purchase some Hefty Zoo Pals at the store and create your own mealtime menagerie. Anytime there is more laughter than tears at the table, it is a win all around.