10 Tips for Setting Good Eating Habits

Setting good examples at mealtimes is crucial for children as they learn and model behaviours from their parents and caregivers.

When adults demonstrate healthy eating habits, such as consuming a balanced diet, practising portion control, and enjoying a variety of nutritious foods, children are more likely to adopt these habits themselves.

By providing positive role models during mealtimes, adults can instil a lifelong foundation of healthy eating, promote the exploration of nutritious foods, and establish a positive relationship with food for their children.

Let them get involved! 

Introducing your very own Little Chef in the heart of your kitchen! Empower your little one by letting them take charge of various tasks, such as cutting vegetables, setting the table, adding spices to dishes, or pouring water into cups for everyone. This delightful experience not only instils a sense of responsibility in your little one but also contributes to their personal, social, and emotional development.

Lead by Example

Children often mimic their parents' behaviours, so make sure you model healthy eating habits. Include a variety of nutritious foods in your own diet and demonstrate portion control. When your child sees you enjoying wholesome meals, they are more likely to follow suit.

Create a Positive Eating Environment

Make mealtimes enjoyable and stress-free. Set a designated area for meals, free from distractions like screens or toys. Create a calm atmosphere, allowing your child to focus on their food and develop a healthy relationship with eating.

Establish Regular Meal and Snack Times

Set consistent meal and snack times throughout the day. This routine helps regulate your little one’s hunger cues and promotes a balanced eating pattern. Avoid skipping meals or using food as a reward, as this can lead to unhealthy associations and habits.

Encourage Mindful Eating

Teach your little one to eat slowly, savour their food, and listen to their body's hunger and fullness signals. Encourage them to chew their food thoroughly and engage in conversation during mealtimes. By fostering mindful eating habits, you promote healthy digestion and prevent overeating.

Trying new foods

Trying new foods is an essential aspect of developing good eating habits. Encouraging your child to explore a variety of flavours and textures introduces them to a world of diverse and nutritious options.

By exposing them to new foods, you expand their palate and cultivate a sense of culinary curiosity.

This practice fosters an openness to healthy choices and helps establish a well-rounded diet. Moreover, embracing new foods promotes an adventurous spirit, instilling a lifelong appreciation for the rich tapestry of flavours that nourish both the body and the soul.

Be sociable

Sharing meals with friends and family is a wonderful social experience that brings everyone closer. Take the time to have meaningful conversations with your little one, discussing their day and reminiscing about shared experiences.

You can gently remind them of specific activities like going to the park or visiting a shop to prompt their memory. Remember, conversations should flow both ways, so don't forget to share your own stories and thoughts as well. 

Encourage Balanced Meals

Aim for balanced meals that include a variety of food groups. Ensure that each plate consists of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Educate your child about the importance of incorporating different food groups for overall nutrition and energy.

Practice Portion Control

Teach your child about appropriate portion sizes from an early age. Use visual cues, such as comparing food portions to their hand or other familiar objects, to help them understand portion sizes. Avoid pressuring them to finish everything on their plate and instead encourage them to listen to their body's signals of fullness.

No distractions 

To fully engage with your little one during mealtimes, it's important to create an electronic device-free environment. Just like you, children don't appreciate distractions like texting during conversations.

So, put your devices on silent mode and dedicate quality one-on-one time with your little one. By doing so, you convey that your attention is solely focused on them, demonstrating respect and emphasising the significance of your connection.