Be a Healthy Role Model for Children — 10 Tips (Printable)
You are the most important influence on your child. You can do many things to help your children develop healthy eating habits for life. Offering a variety of foods helps children get the nutrients they need from every food group.
Be a Healthy Role Model for Children
You are the most important influence on your child. You can do many things to help your children develop healthy eating habits for life. Offering a variety of foods helps children get the nutrients they need from every food group.
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1. Show by example
Eat vegetables, fruits, and whole grains with meals or as snacks. Let your child see that you enjoy crunchy carrots, apple slices, and other healthy foods — children imitate what they see.
2. Go food shopping together
Grocery shopping can teach your child about food and nutrition. Discuss where vegetables, fruits, grains, dairy, and protein foods come from, and let your child make healthy choices.
3. Get creative in the kitchen
Cut food into fun and easy shapes with cookie cutters. Let your children help make snacks, such as mixing fruit and low-fat yogurt. Children may try foods they help to prepare.
4. Offer the same foods for everyone
Stop being a "short-order cook" by making a different meal for your child. It's easier to plan family meals when everyone eats the same foods, and your child learns to enjoy a variety.
5. Reward with attention, not food
Comfort your child with hugs and talks. Choose not to offer sweets as rewards. It lets your child know they are loved without using food as a treat or a reward.
6. Focus on each other at the table
Talk about fun and happy things at mealtime. Turn off the television and put away phones. Take time to enjoy your meal and your family's company.
7. Listen to your child
If your child says they are hungry, offer a small, healthy snack — even if it is not a scheduled time to eat. Offer choices, and let children decide how much to eat from what you serve.
8. Limit screen time
Avoid eating in front of a TV, computer, or other screen. Try to eat only at the kitchen table so meals are mindful, and set a limit on your child's screen time.
9. Encourage physical activity
Make physical activity fun for the whole family. Involve your children in the planning, walk to the park together, or play a game of tag. Aim for the recommended 60 minutes a day for kids.
10. Be a good food role model
Try a new food yourself. Describe its taste, texture, and smell. Offer one new food at a time, and serve something your child likes along with the new food.