Want your kids to acquire healthy eating habits? Start them cooking!

Taking part in snack and meal preparation encourages children to develop sound food choices and may even persuade a picky eater to try new tastes.

Some of the best items for kids to work with can be found at the supermarket deli counter.

An assortment of fine meats and cheeses are great tools for young chefs to make some of their favorite treats.

Using products that meet many of a child's daily nutritional needs, It's also a great way to teach a healthy diet.

2 slices Swiss cheese2 slices honey ham1 slice American cheese1 slice bolognaSmall pretzel sticks (Make sure to select a sturdy kind.)On clean work surface (plastic cutting board or plate will do), lay out cheese slices.Place a ham slice on each Swiss cheese slice and bologna on American cheese. Starting at one end, roll up each pair of slices and skewer with a pretzel stick. (Adults may need to assist small hands with pretzel spearing.)Makes three roll ups.

1 (¾-pound) package cocktail beef frankfurters1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated, ready-made crescent roll dough1 whole dill pickle, cut in halfHoney mustardLay out individual crescent rolls, then cut into thirds using a dull knife.Wrap each strip of dough around a cocktail frankfurter. Place on baking sheet and cook according to crescent roll package directions, usually at 350 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes, until dough is golden.While the "piggies" cook, turn pickle flat sides down. Using the same dull knife, have kids practice cutting and slice pickle halves in two.Make sure to show them where to place their hands to protect their fingers. Use sliced pickles as garnish.Makes eight servings.

2 English muffins¼ cup tomato paste or pasta sauceOregano (optional)2 slices mozzarella cheese, each cut into 4 strips12 slices pepperoni (can be purchased pre-sliced in a pouch)Place English muffins on clean work surface. Halve each, using fork or metal spatula.Spread each half with a tablespoon sauce or tomato paste. Sprinkle with pinch of oregano.Arrange three pepperoni slices on each half, then make a large X on each half with mozzarella cheese strips.Place on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees, about 10 minutes or until hot and cheese has melted.Makes four pizzas

Growing children need extra calcium. In fact, recent reports say that many children today are not receiving the amount that they need.Make sure some of the snacks your kids prepare include cheese to give them the calcium they need.