Young children are often picky, rejecting foods that are healthy and preferring unhealthy alternatives. As parents, you can help them establish healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime. Here are 10 tips that can help form these habits:
1. Be a "good example"
Children learn from those around them. If they see their parents enjoying fruits and vegetables, they will be more inclined to try them.
2. Do not use pressure
Do not force children to eat. This can scare them and make them more reluctant to try new foods. Allow them to have control over what they eat.
3. Don't use food as a form of reward
Giving a treat as a reward for eating fruit or vegetables will create a bad association with food. After a healthy meal, try offering fruit in child-friendly forms.
4. Don't give in to refusing new foods
It can take up to 15 times for a child to accept a new food. So keep offering new opportunities, without forcing it.
5. Offer limited choices
At mealtimes, give some options, but don't overdo it. This will help children feel confident and choose what they like.
6. Keep portions small
One scoop for each year of life is an excellent serving guide. Start small and offer more if needed.
7. Limit ready-made juices and snacks
Offer some healthy options at certain times and limit the consumption of juices and uncontrolled snacks.
8. Don't worry about the mess
An important part of learning for children is through touch and taste. Don't worry about the mess - it's part of the process.
9. Learn to accept rejection
Some children are naturally more sensitive to certain tastes. Accept the fact that sometimes refusing foods is a normal part of development.
10. Remember that there is no room for panic
Each child develops at his own pace. If your child is on the right track of growth, it is certain that he is getting the necessary nutrition.
Healthy food is a gift you give your child for a healthy life. Use these tips to help your child develop good habits and a positive relationship with food.
