Managing Meal Times
Children’s appetites vary depending on their activity level. Some
children will polish off everything on their plates, while others are very
picky eaters – and any parent will tell you that the latter is very
frustrating. Children will consume exactly the amount their bodies
require. Unlike adults, they are not conditioned to ignore hunger
signals because they are busy, or gorge because something tastes so
good they can’t stop eating it. What is important is that children get a
variety of nutrients from each food group, even if it is in such a small
quantity as one mouthful.
I made the mistake of thinking that as long as my children’s tummies were full then they had enough fuel in them to cope with the hive of activity that is a small child’s life. I loaded them up with carbohydrates: I was wrong. Now I work on the theory that it’s about quality not quantity, one mouthful of broccoli or green beans (reluctantly consumed by my kids) gives them more nutritional value than no broccoli or beans at all.
Here are a few ideas to get you and your child into some good eating habits.Try and provide a balanced diet
A ‘Balanced’ diet means including carbohydrates, protein, fats, vitamins and minerals and fibre. To try and incorporate all these into daily mealtimes is a tough call by any experts standards, however, do your best, and don’t beat yourself up if you don’t manage it every day. As long as a toddler’s overall diet includes a good mix of these, no matter how small, he or she will be getting the nourishment needed for energy and growth.
Control the convenience foods
Convenience foods are exactly that – convenient. They do have their benefits in every family home, after all we’re not superhuman and we too need some time out from the kitchen. However the danger with convenience foods is that they tend to contain a high level of salt which can cause damage to a child’s still developing kidneys, and may also contain chemicals such as artificial colourings and flavourings. Artificial colourings and flavourings can lead to a whole world of behavioural problems and allergies. It’s best to limit them if possible.
Kids need to snack during the day
Children need snacks in between meals to keep their energy up. Their tummies are very small so they do not eat a great deal in one sitting. Try healthy snacks when you can, a chopped up apple or carrot, cherry tomatoes are great if you find the sweeter ones, and maybe bread instead of sugary cakes or biscuits.
No need to put an all out ban on ‘Junk’ Food and Sweets
Sweets, crisps and biscuits, like convenience foods, have their place in every home. They are of no real nutritional value, however, having them as an occasional treat should do no harm. If you ban them completely there’s a chance it could backfire, so, everything in moderation.
Keep up the milk
Milk is an important part of a young child’s diet, even after weaning. It has proteins, vitamins and calcium, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth. Whole milk is best for children up to the age of at least two. There are also
‘follow-on’ formulas available, which have added vitamins and iron.
Watch those drinks at mealtimes
Children need plenty of fluids during the day to keep them hydrated, and we all need a drink with dinner, but children’s tummies are very small and it’s very easy to fill that tiny tummy with drink. Encourage them to eat a few mouthfuls before drinking, and try to stick to water if possible or natural fruit juices. Try and stay clear of fizzy drinks at the table, not only are they bad for their teeth but will fill those tiny tummies even faster.
Allow him to feed himself
Children love to explore with their fingers and mouths. Give him the opportunity to feed himself; this will give him independence and enjoyment of his food. Place children’s cutlery on his table, he’ll start to copy you and learn faster, prepare yourself for some mess though, it’ll be worth it in the end.
Keep him company
Nobody likes to eat alone, so keep him company, even if you just eat some fruit or a small snack. He’ll enjoy the time together because he has your undivided attention. Include the whole family as often as possible, and don’t be tempted to let him eat and run around, there is a chance he may choke.
Try and keep your cool
Children are smarter than we give them credit for, and they know exactly how to work us. Don’t let meal times become a battle ground. Keep in mind the few ideas below and you can’t go wrong.
- Children will eat exactly what they need, and will stop when they are satisfied. Don’t force them to eat everything on their plate.
- If your child will not eat, take away the plate, but don’t offer anything else. This goes against a mothers natural instinct, I know, I tried it over and over. Try and stick this one out, it will be worth it in the end.
- Show your child that you are happy with them when they eat well and try new food. Children love to make their parents smile.
I hope these ideas help you. Meal times are just one of the many delightfully challenging aspects of parenthood, and if you need help, don’t be afraid to ask – you’ll climb that mountain so much quicker.
Good luck.
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