What’s For Dinner? Teaching Your Kids About the Power of Nutrition

Teaching children about nutrition is a pivotal lesson in their overall well-being. Childhood serves as a critical period for cultivating habits that can have lasting effects on health. By instilling a foundational understanding of nutrition, parents not only contribute to their child’s physical and mental health but also lay the groundwork for positive habits in various aspects of life, benefiting the entire family.

Parents play a crucial role in guiding their children’s eating habits. Here are some key considerations for fostering a healthy relationship with food:

• When, where, and how much to eat: Parents can influence the timing, location, and portion sizes of meals. By establishing a regular snack and meal schedule, children develop a sense of routine and stability around food consumption.

• Teaching mindful eating: Encourage children to eat slowly, savouring each bite, and recognizing feelings of fullness. This mindfulness fosters an awareness of internal cues, helping them make informed decisions about when to eat and when to stop.

While parents guide the process, it’s vital to empower children to make their own choices regarding food. This involves:

• Whether and how much to eat: Children should be encouraged to decide when they are hungry and when they are full. This autonomy promotes a healthy relationship with food, allowing children to develop a natural understanding of their own nutritional needs.

If you are looking at how to foster these healthy relationships with food, check out these quick do’s and don’ts:

Do:

• Set up a regular snack and meal schedule to establish consistency.

• Identify foods from each food group that your child enjoys to ensure a balanced diet.

• Prioritize a healthy breakfast to kickstart the day on a nutritious note.

• Foster family meals as often as possible, creating a positive environment around food.

• Include vegetables and fruits in snacks and meals, promoting diverse nutrition.

• Encourage water consumption as the primary thirst-quencher.

• Introduce new foods gradually to expand your child’s palate.

• Reserve fast food as an occasional treat, opting for smaller portion sizes.

• Lead by example, showcasing healthy eating habits in your own choices.

Don’t:

• Provide sugary drinks as a regular beverage choice.

• Serve portions that are too large for children, promoting mindful consumption.

• Avoid coercive phrases like “clean your plate” or “one more bite,” respecting natural hunger and fullness cues.

• Refrain from using food as a reward to prevent associations between emotions and eating.

• Position dessert as a treat; instead, integrate it seamlessly into meals.

Explore online tools, such as nutrition calculators, to gain insights into your child’s dietary needs. These resources can aid in tailoring nutrition plans that align with their individual requirements, ensuring a comprehensive approach to their well-being. If you are looking to blend your parental guidance with healthy recommendations, check out Easy Platter’s recipesand get matched with a personal chef today.