As part of the Podar Prep Preschool community, we understand that meal times can feel more like a battlefield than a dining table. My child does not eat- is every parent’s complaint! But don’t worry, we’ve got your back!
Firstly, let’s delve into ‘what’ children should eat. It’s important to keep them away from junk food. The additives in junk and packaged food are harmful for their brain development. The foundation of a child’s diet should be filled with a variety of nutrient-dense foods, we need to ensure that they get the 5 groups of food in their diet which includes fresh fruits and vegetables, protein food, whole grains, and dairy. These are the building blocks for their growth, development, and overall health.
Next, the ‘where’ is also significant. Where children eat can influence their attitude towards food and mealtime behaviours. It is very important that they eat with you at the dining table. Creating a calm, distraction-free environment for meals can encourage mindful eating. Eating together as a family promotes social interaction and studies show that children who partake in family meals tend to have better dietary intake which helps them to become independent eaters.
Lastly, ‘how’ children eat is pivotal to their relationship with food. Teaching them to eat slowly and chew properly aids digestion and helps them recognize their body’s signals for fullness, preventing overeating. It is also important that they don’t eat in front of the screen because nowadays parents find mobile phones and other screen devices as an easy solution for their children to eat but it’s extremely wrong as it hampers their relationship with food for a lifetime.
Education is another secret ingredient in our recipe to combat picky eating. We’ve found that when children learn about their food – where it comes from, its nutritional benefits, and how it’s prepared – they become more eager to taste and enjoy it.
With our efforts at Podar Prep Preschool and your loving support at home, we’re confident that we can turn these picky eating phases into a launching pad for lifelong healthy eating habits.
To contact the nearest Podar Prep centre, click here: https://podarprep.com/locations/