One Simple Thing To Improve Meal Time with Kids (From A Dietitian And Mom)
Are you tired of your kids not eating the meals you prepare for them?
Do you feel like you are force feeding them at dinner? You want them to eat their meals so ten minutes later they aren't asking for a snack.
Have you considered how many snacks they are having? When are they eating snacks? Or maybe your kids are grazing all day long?
Yep! You guessed it. Your kids may be getting too many or too much for snacks if they are barely eating at meal times. They aren't actually hungry at meals.
It happens pretty easily. Your kids become more independent. They help you out by reaching for something on their own. Or if you have younger ones, snacks take time providing a little freedom to get things done. They are entertained and even more well behaved with frequent snacks. It is easy to pass a snack when you are driving, grocery shopping or just trying to concentrate.
Snacks are not bad. In fact kids are growing and need small snacks to meet their energy needs. The goal is not to get rid of snacks, but instead set some guidelines. A snack should be in between meals, not close to meals.
If your kid doesn't eat breakfast and then asks for a snack right after breakfast, what should you do? If you say yes, you are saying to your child that "You don't really need to eat breakfast, just ask for a snack later." If you say "No, you can have a snack at snack time." You may get a tantrum but your child will not starve. Short term pain for long term gain.
If you are consistent with keeping snacks between meals (instead of close to meals) you should see increased willingness to try new foods and more than nibbles consumed.
Here are a few things to consider when getting started…
If your child is old enough, I always recommend open communication. Explain the new rule and how it is your role as the parent to determine when snacks are available based on when meals will be served. If your child is not old enough to understand verbally you will deliver a clear message with consistent follow through.
Remember that your child's nutritional needs are constantly changing, therefore eating all of some meals and none (or small amount) of others is completely normal. Honor your child's appetite.
If snacks are under control and your child still has a consistently low appetite, it may be time to talk to the pediatrician, as low iron status could be the cause.
As always if you would like more information, don't hesitate to CONTACT ME.
