I found a vey good article for encouraging healthy eating habits in children.
Nutrition in Preschoolers: http://www.suite101.com/content/nutrition-in-preschoolers-a39163
As the article said, preschoolers need nutrients to provide energy, promote growth of body issues, and regulate body functions. That’s the reason why children have to develop healthy eating habits. Whether in school or at home, adults should help young children develop the good habit.
I agree that parents are the primary influence in the lives of younger children. I noticed that most children’s eating habits are the same with their parents. For example, daddy do not takes mushroom, the particular child will not takes the mushroom as well. Not only that, it happens on myself too. My mother do not takes pork. She told me pork is smelly. So, I don’t takes pork too. And, there are a lot more foods that I don’t eat because of her.
The article given a good point of allow the kids to plan their menu and choose their own ingredients and foods. Parents can introduce or teach their children about healthy foods before grocery shopping. It is work for children to know the importance of healthy diet. Children always satisfy with their own menu. They happy with what they choose and prepare. This is another way to encourage the children to eat healthy foods.
Ready wide variety of nutritious fruits and vegetables is another good idea too. Children can always get the fresh fruits and vegetables readily available when they are hungry. Children don’t have much options. So, they have to choose any nutritious foods of them.
Parents can follow the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) food guide pyramid for young children. The USDA recommends healthy foods for children. Parents can make the meals more attracting to the children
Parents are the main role affect children healthy eating habits. So, parents should be a good role model for them.
