As they grow older, young children become more independent and begin to become more food-minded. It is very common that they start to despise foods that they loved or that their appetite changes drastically from one day to the next.
10 TIPS FOR DEALING WITH WHIMSICAL KIDS AT MEALTIME
Don’t let despair invade your table
After 2 years, the growth rate slows down a bit, which usually results in a decreased appetite, and around this age children begin to notice that refusing to eat is a powerful weapon and a good way to draw attention. Stay calm and don’t let mealtime turn into a battle of wills. When the child notices that you are getting nervous, it is very likely that the situation will turn into a battle of wills, which will only make both of you feel unhappy and frustrated. Threats and punishments all they do is reinforce the power struggle.
Don’t give snacks
If your child refuses to eat a certain food or a particular food, simply remove the plate without further comment, but don’t let it fill with snacks or drinks between meals.
Serve small portions
Do not expect to eat a large plate of anything, to avoid conflicts, serve small portions and perhaps everything on the same plate, that is, the soup already with some protein such as chicken, meat or cheese integrated.
Never use food as punishment
That the food is not extortion, reward or threat, because that may cause feeding problems in the future.
Be flexible
Children in early childhood have a small stomach, with little capacity, so make sure it doesn’t get full by drinking too much liquid between meals. Do not give him drinks, except water, for an hour before meals. During meals, do not offer drinks until they have finished eating.
Be patient
Be patient with new foods. Children often need repeated exposure to new foods before they are willing to try them.
It is logical that you have preferences when choosing the foods you like the most. We all have food preferences, so you can’t expect your child to like everything.
Try to keep a routine
S írvele meals and snacks about the same time every day.
Minimize distractions during meals
Turn off the TV and don’t let books or toys be on the table.
Don’t offer dessert as a prize
This conveys the message that dessert is the best food, which will only lead to an increased desire for sweets in the child.
No whims
Keep in mind that children often acquire poor eating habits from other members of their own family. T rat prevent older brothers show whim s at lunchtime because smaller often copy the behavior of their older brothers and make sure your own eating habits set a good example.