Most parents have dealt with picky eaters at some point of time or the other. Many times we feel that our kids don’t eat well, or don’t eat what we give them, or don’t like healthy food. So, what can be done?
Well, its important to remember that kids can’t eat well all the time. If they don’t eat well today, but make up for it in the next couple of days, then you’re all good. What matters is that they are healthy and feeling well.
But there are phases when kids don’t eat well and parents can either let the phase pass or worry about it and keep insisting that their kids eat. And there are other possibilities that you can try. Here are some tips.
Involve them in the food creation process. Take them shopping and let them pick (something healthy) what they like so they feel confident about what they are eating and look forward to it.
Teach them to manage unwanted morsels. If your child finds a chili pepper in his rice, it does not mean the entire rice is spicy. Get them to move the pepper aside and eat the rest. This is the first step towards eating everything on their plate.
Don’t force a child to eat. Making them eat when you want and what you want is only going to make them feel that they are being bossed over. Instead wait for them to get hungry so that they respect the food they get. And them watch as they gobble it down.
Reduce snacks. Keep the ‘in-betweens’ out. A sugary drink after school will fill them up before dinner. Try a banana instead. At least its healthy.
Increase the variety. Keep adding new things on the menu and eat it first to show that you like it. This demonstrates interest in the food you eat. Better, still involve them in the food making process.
Never make alternatives. When a child is hungry, they will eat anything that’s in front of them. But if you give them a choice, then their favorites will get done, while the healthy food stays. So let them eat less if they don’t like something. Because they need to start somewhere to build their tastebuds for different food. I have a spoonful rule base don their age if they don’t like it. ‘Don’t like it when you’re 3? Try at least 3 spoonfuls.
Invite a food lover over. When some of their friends eat everything and like it, your kids will like to try it too. So playdates followed by dinner are perfect to introduce new food in your child’s life!
Eat healthy, grow better!