SEATTLE - Some local families are finding a new way to make good nutrition fun for their kids during the holidays.

It's a parent's gift that can keep on giving for a lifetime.

It's called Kids in the Kitchen, and the chefs in today's class at the Northshore YMCA are 4 and 5 years old. They are here with their moms to make some healthy holiday creations. 

Instructor Sabrina Ramme is a Bastyr University student in the nutrition science program.

"We try and substitute things that they're used to with things that are a little bit healthier, like using whole wheat flour in place of white flour," she said. "Or natural sugar in place of refined sugar."

And there's strategy in this class. These kids are far more likely to try new foods when they get to participate hands-on. Another winning ingredient is parent involvement.

Jennifer Stiebeling is hoping her 5-year-old chef Kyle will pick up a taste, not just for gingerbread cookies, but for vegetables too.

"Hopefully with his dad and I modeling, and then coming to a class like this, and cooking, and talking about healthy foods, I'm hoping some of it will sink in," she said.

While a growing number of kids battle obesity in our country, parents offer their children the best protection.

"When a parent is curious about being active, a parent is curious about a food, and shares that interest with a child, a child embraces it and learns how to eat differently and be active," said Linna Dossett, YMCA Total Health Director.

And these parents hope time in this kitchen will pay off in health benefits for their kids long after the holiday season is a happy memory.

Parents shouldn't be discouraged if kids don't like a new food right away. Offer it alongside their favorites so it becomes more familiar over time. Another tip for helping kids eat healthier during the holidays: Make sure they eat a nutritious snack before a big party.