I want him to have energy for school and activities, but also to eat healthy. I try to give him balanced meals with protein, fruits, and vegetables, but sometimes he just wants snacks. I’m worried that he eats too many processed foods. How can I make him enjoy healthy food more without forcing it? I also want to know if he’s drinking enough water because sometimes he only drinks juice. I feel like nutrition is key to his growth, but I don’t always know if I’m doing it right
Been there, done that! My kids are 7 now, and I can tell you that food battles get easier with time. One thing that worked when they were younger was the exposure rule, I kept offering different healthy foods without pressure. Sometimes they’d ignore it, but eventually, they’d try and even like some of them. I also involved them in grocery shopping and cooking. If they helped make the food, they were way more likely to eat it.
For water, I cut juice with water to make it less sugary and slowly reduced it over time. Now they don’t even ask for juice that often. I also let them pick fun water bottles with their favorite characters, and somehow that made drinking water more exciting? Kids are weird like that lol.
At the end of the day, nutrition is a long game. Some days will be all chicken nuggets and crackers, and that’s okay. Just keep offering the good stuff, and don’t stress too much!
I totally get the worry, nutrition is such a huge part of growth and energy, and it’s overwhelming when kids just want snacks! From what I’ve learned, a big part of making healthy food more appealing is familiarity and control. Kids love choices, so instead of saying Eat this broccoli, try offering, Do you want broccoli or carrots? Same with water, asking Do you want your water in a blue cup or a red one? can actually make a difference. Sounds silly, but kids love feeling like they’re in charge!
If he loves snacks, try making healthy snacks:
Yogurt with fruit and granola instead of sugary ones
Air, popped popcorn instead of chips
Whole, wheat crackers with hummus
Apple slices with almond butter
Also, hydration tip, if he’s stuck on juice, try freezing watered, down juice into ice cubes and adding them to his water. Makes it fun and still flavorful but with way less sugar. Small changes over time add up! You’re already being mindful about his nutrition, which means you’re doing a great job. 
My son is 6, and some days he’s a bottomless pit, eating everything in sight, and other days he just wants Goldfish and juice. It’s exhausting trying to balance it all, and honestly, I’ve learned to pick my battles. What’s worked for me is making healthy food look like a treat, smoothies with fun straws, apple slices with peanut butter and sprinkles, or homemade Lunchables with cheese, turkey, and crackers. Also, I leave water bottles around the house so he drinks more without thinking about it. Some days are better than others, and I try not to stress too much. You’re doing great, and I promise he won’t live off snacks forever!