Veganism is a diet and a lifestyle. Vegan parents often want their children to follow their diet and philosophy. Teaching your kids about veganism does not have to be a struggle.
What It Means to Be Vegan
The Vegan Society defines veganism as a philosophy and lifestyle. The primary focus of veganism is to exclude the cruelty and exploitation of animals, including animal products in food, clothing, or any products or for any purpose. Veganism promotes the use and creation of animal-free products for the betterment of society and the environment.
The concept of veganism and what it means to be vegan can seem lofty for a little one, but there are ways to explain it that coincide with age. You can develop a healthy understanding of the compassion and animal appreciation connected with veganism by visiting farm sanctuaries, watching videos, reading books, and having an open dialogue.
Explaining the Benefits of Veganism to Your Child
Vegan parents often receive judgment from non-vegans. Many argue that a vegan diet is unsafe or not beneficial for children, but as with most speculation about veganism, they are wrong.
According to the American Dietetic Association, vegan diets are healthy and nutritionally adequate when planned correctly. Several studies suggest that a vegan diet is heart-healthy and can reduce the risks of certain diseases. However, consider adding a children's multivitamin to ensure adequate nutrition.
When explaining the benefits of veganism to your children, focus on their age. Most little ones only need to understand that a vegan diet will help them grow big and strong and that it helps protect their favorite animals.
Making Vegan Meals With Your Child
The best way to teach your child about veganism and its benefits is to cook with them. Find a kid-friendly recipe and walk them through the ingredients and steps.
As you discuss the ingredients, talk about the benefits of each. For instance, kale promotes bone and eye health, strengthening the immune system and promoting brain health. For little ones, tell them that kale makes their bones strong and increases their brain power.
Cooking with your child also creates positive memories and associations with veganism. If you make cooking unique and memorable, some of the positive emotions associated with the experience will naturally transfer to the philosophy of veganism.
Veganism Goes Beyond Diet
Veganism is not only about your food choices. Yes, diet defines a portion of what it means to be vegan, but it is not everything. Ultimately, veganism is about compassion, love, and life.
Many people become vegan because of a love of animals and all living creatures. Other people choose veganism for health reasons. Regardless of the reason, veganism is a lifestyle that embodies diet and personal choice and stance.
Raising a vegan child is about showing them what commitment to a cause looks like. Discipline, dedication, and compassion are the driving forces behind veganism; each is the foundation of a tremendous human being.
Letting Your Child Choose Veganism or Not
Veganism is a philosophy, but it is not universal. Many people see vegan lifestyles as extreme. Ultimately, you chose to commit to a vegan diet and lifestyle. Your child should be free to make the same choice when they are old enough.
Raising your little one with specific beliefs is normal; their views will naturally mirror your own. Still, as your child develops, they will establish opinions and philosophies of their own. As a parent, strive to show support.
Dietary choices early on will often dictate lifestyle choices later. If your child develops eating a healthy and balanced vegan diet, they may never stray, but then again, they might.
Veganism is a safe diet when balanced. Still, talk to a pediatrician about dietary changes.