When Your Grandchild Is a Picky Eater
Barbara Farner, nutrition and wellness educator
Children are different in their needs and feelings about food.
Some children eat just about everything while others don’t
seem to like anything. We want children to eat well and to develop
good eating habits. If you have a picky eater at your house, try
these tips to promote good eating habits:
- Don’t force children to eat if they don’t seem hungry.
A child who is going through a slow growth period may not be hungry.
- Don’t use food as a reward. A statement like, "Eat
your vegetables or you won’t get dessert," gives the
impression that dessert is better than vegetables. Serve dessert
as a regular part of the meal.
- Keep two hours between snacks and meals. If children snack too
close to mealtime, they may not be hungry.
- Serve a variety of fruits, vegetables, milk, meat, cheese, cereals,
breads and desserts.
- Offer food choices. Help children to feel more independent and
in control by offering them choices whenever possible.
- Get children involved. They are more likely to try foods they
have helped select, clean or prepare.
- Set a good example. Children watch what you do. If you enjoy
eating vegetables, they probably will too.
- Reduce distractions. Turn off the radio and television while
eating meals and snacks.
- Make mealtime pleasant. It should be a time to share and visit
with one another. Don’t fight, argue, or scold at mealtime.
Nagging, forcing or bribing a child is no help. A hungry child
will eat.
Remember, it is our responsibility as adults to establish a pleasant
meal environment and offer nutritious healthy food. It is the child’s
responsibility to decide which of the offered foods to eat and how
much to eat.
In This Issue: Structure and Support
Are Key Elements for School Success | Your
Attitude Makes a Difference | Recipe Corner
| When Your Grandchild Is a Picky Eater |
