I’m a mum & a dietitian – 7 things I would never do… forcing kids to finish their plate is never a good idea
CALLING all parents – it turns out that you might be making some crucial mistakes with your child when it comes to mealtimes.
So if you want to raise a child with healthy eating habits, you’ll need to listen up and pay attention.
We spoke to Caroline Farrell, a Registered Nutritionist with 12 years’ clinical experience and five years’ experience as the Nutritionist for the Premier League Clubs Watford FC and Fulham FC, to get her verdict on the things you must refrain from doing with your children when it comes to eating.
The mum-of-two shared the seven things she would never do with her two little girls, including skipping meals and forcing a child to finish their plate.
Use food as a reward
While you may be tempted to use food as a reward with your kids, according to Caroline, this is not a smart idea.
She explained: “Using food as a reward can create an unhealthy relationship with food.
“Children may learn to use food to cope with stress, sadness, or boredom, which can lead to emotional overeating later in life.
“I try to reward alternatives to food such as family activities like board games or outings.”
Skip meals
As well as this, Caroline expressed that skipping meals is a big no no and can have detrimental impacts on your little darling.
She added: “Skipping meals, especially breakfast, can negatively impact a child’s energy levels, concentration, and overall health.
“I always encourage regular meal and snack times. I give my kids snacks with fibre and protein to sustain them between meals.
“We like fruit and yoghurt, nut butter and apple, hard-boiled eggs and fruit or carrot sticks and hummus.”
Force children to finish their meals
Not only must skipping meals be off the cards, but this dietitian also shared her thoughts on why you must never force a child to finish his or her plate.
She expressed: “Forcing children to finish their plate can override a child’s natural ability to recognise when they are full, potentially leading to overeating and unhealthy eating habits.
“Also, this approach may diminish the enjoyment of food, create negative associations with mealtime, and even promote emotional eating.
“I try to encourage my children to listen to their hunger and fullness cues.”
Not setting a good example
Caroline also highlighted the importance of being a good role model when it comes to eating habits.
The mother stressed: “Children often model their parents’ eating behaviour.
“Through leading by example, parents demonstrate the importance of making nutritious food choices and practising healthy eating habits.
“These habits learned in childhood are more likely to persist into adulthood, ensuring a lifetime of informed and healthy food choices.”
Not involving kids in meal prep
It may be something that you overlook, but Caroline shared the importance of involving children in meal preparation.
She explained: “Involving kids in meal preparation is a great way to support healthy eating habits and foster a positive relationship with food.
“This involvement not only teaches children valuable life skills but also encourages them to develop an appreciation for nutritious foods.
“I encourage my children to choose recipes, create shopping lists, and accompany me to the supermarket to choose ingredients.
“In the kitchen, my kids love helping me wash vegetables, stir ingredients, and make their own packed lunches for school.
“Encouraging their creativity and ownership of the meals can make them more excited about eating healthily and trying new foods.”
Make mealtimes stressful
While you might see dinner time as an opportunity to vent to your partner about your day, Caroline advised that this should be avoided where possible if children are present.
The expert shared: “I always recommend parents avoid arguments or pressure to eat.
“Stressful mealtimes can lead to negative associations with food, potentially resulting in food aversions and disordered eating patterns.”
Give up too soon on a new food
Finally, Caroline claimed that while it can be tiring to introduce new foods to your child, it is something that you must work at.
The dietitian concluded: “Children may initially resist trying new foods. I try to stay patient and continue offering these foods without pressure.
“It might take multiple attempts for a child to develop a liking for something new.
“Celebrate the small victories, like the joy of seeing your child finally trying a broccoli floret after six months!”
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