Proper nutrition is essential for young children to help them grow healthy and strong. However, many children undergo a “picky eater” phase and may refuse to try new foods. This can prevent children from getting adequate nutrition at home and at their nursery school.
As your go-to early childhood center, we will share effective tips to say goodbye to picky eating:
- Avoid putting pressure on meals.
When it takes more effort to get your child to take a bite, start with “no-pressure meals”. When you have a meal ready, let your child decide how much they want to eat.
Avoid saying things like “just try one bite” or “you have to eat it, or you can’t play”. By removing pressure, you create a pleasant eating environment where your child can learn to try new foods.
- Establish kitchen hours.
Letting your child eat freely at all hours can backfire for kids who are picky eaters, as they are less likely to feel hungry and will be less willing to try new foods. Instead of letting your child eat whenever they want, establish kitchen hours and follow an eating schedule similar to what is followed in your child’s private preschool.
- Sit down to eat.
Sit down to eat as a family and have the kids sit down at their respective seats. This encourages children to slow down and listen to their bodies, which will allow them to eat better. Seeing other family members eat will also encourage them to try out new dishes.
Here at Community Educational Research Group, we offer school programs for young learners.
From infant care to preschool in Minnesota Ave. NE, Washington, DC, our programs are designed to promote development. Contact us to enroll your child today.
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