Today I thought I would share with you my mother’s secrets on how you can get your children to eat everything you want them to. I’ve tried it and it works!!!!
When I asked my mother in desperation how I could get my children to eat she replied ” it’s easy just watch what I do”. So I did.
1) You need to be a good role model choose healthy foods, make the time to cook healthy foods don’t just give into letting them have what they want
2)Make sure meal times are positive so your child can associate a happy feeling with eating healthy foods and mealtimes in general.
3)When meal times begin you need to be patient with your child, don’t rush them while they are eating as this can cause anxiety and again a negative attitude to food and meal times.
4)If your child rejects the food simply say I just need you to try it, be persistent with them but not pushy, once they taste it they will love it and keep going. In the beginning choose things your children will like then add other ingredients you want. Even sneak in a few vegetables.
It may mean you will need to dedicate a bit of time to meal time and be persistent to getting your child to eat. My mother also suggested having the children help you to prepare the meal as children love trying what they have helped make.
A few other handy hints;
- Always offer healthy snacks in between so children get used to only eating healthy options
- Have a variety of healthy snacks as choice is important
- Try not to bribe as it creates a negative attitude to healthy foods and meal times.
Good luck and soon you can try YiaYia Mary’s receipes from her cookbook coming soon
