When it comes to children and their eating habits, there can be many challenges. Some little ones may be very fussy when it comes to food, and others may eat a lot one day and almost nothing the next. If you think that your child is not eating healthy enough, then you will find these tips very valuable.
Be the good role model
If you want your children to eat well and the right types of food, then you must be prepared to give them the same as you are having and actually eat yours. Try to encourage them to eat fruits and vegetables, and let them know that they should try everything as they might really like something that they do not like the look of. Be sure not to ever miss meals again, as this sends a very unhealthy message to your kids.
Keep a check on what your children drink
It is very important for your children to get plenty of fluids, but what they are drinking is just as important. You need to make sure that they are not having too much soda or any other type of sugary drinks. These types of drinks contain a lot of sugar and calories, and should be avoided as much as possible. Try to rather give them plain water or low-fat milk or pure juice whenever possible. Water keeps them hydrated and milk provides them with some of the calcium that their daily diets require.
Portion sizes are also important
Your children need a lot less food on a daily basis than you do, so do not give your children portions larger than they need. Even nutritious food in large amount can lead to them becoming overweight. Preschoolers should have about 1 ½ cups of fruit and vegetables on a daily basis. Older children will need more than that. Try to let your children eat until they are full, so that you can get a better idea of how much to give them at one sitting.
Experiment with new foods
Letting your children choose one new food from the supermarket every week might just encourage them to try what they have chosen. Just remember that it may take a few times before they are actually willing to give the new item a try. Let your little ones try out new foods when you are in a restaurant and try to guide them towards the healthy menu items.