Sometimes meal times are delayed which can make for some very hungry little ones. I've learned to keep fresh veggies in the fridge for hectic meal times. It took me less than 5 minutes to get this plate ready from start to finish. (I sliced the celery thinner.) The children get to take the edge off their hunger. I get peace while I am cooking and more nutrition goes into my growing children.
Your picky children won't eat vegetables? Put them out as the only offering when they are very, very hungry like after they have been playing hard outside. That worked for me. Stand your ground on things that count, and their health counts! Make the tough calls for the good of your loved ones. That's called parenting!