Winning over a fussy preschooler-Inculcating sound nutrition habits

Are your preschoolers refusing to eat anything but smileys or chicken nuggets or are they wanting to take just chips or candies in their tiffin boxes? Do they refuse to eat till you put on "you tube" or the TV? You are not the only ones complaining. Here are a few simple steps that can be tried to avoid a struggle at meal times:

- Let them recognize hunger pangs: A child may or may not be hungry. Respect that. Do not force or bribe otherwise the child will be anxious and not be able to recognize the hunger pangs.

-Serve only small portions: An overloaded plate causes aversion. Let them ask for more.

-Follow a routine: Meals should be served at the same time everyday. If regular meal is not eaten, then provide nutritious and attractive snacks later.

-Water: Provide water/other liquids only" in-between" and not with the meals.

-Be patient with new healthy foods: The child may just touch it or take a bite and then refuse. Keep trying repeatedly. Sometimes it may take weeks for a new taste to develop.

-Location/ atmosphere: Ensure that the child is served at the dining table preferably with family members.

-Make meal times fun: Serve broccoli or other veggies with a favorite dip or sauce. Cut foods into interesting shapes. Serve a variety of brightly colored foods.

-Get them involved: Ensure that your child is involved in shopping at the grocery store . He can also play a role in the kitchen . He can be asked to do simple chores like mixing the batter and washing the veggies.

-Minimize distractions like T.V at mealtimes

-Encourage independence: Let them eat themselves

-Do not deprive them of desserts: Keep two meals a week as dessert meals- homemade stewed fruit, sweetened fruity yogurt, ice cream, "gulab jamun", halwa etc

Do maintain a growth chart (height and weight). If you notice anything alarming and if the child continues to be a fussy eater, consult your doctor. Common health problems are also appetite killers.

Eating habits do not change overnight but small measures taken at the right time may result in a lifetime of eating right.

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