Family meals allow your preschooler to focus on the task of eating and give you a chance to model good behaviors.

It takes a little work to bring everyone together for meals. But it’s worth it and the whole family eats better. 

	•	Start eating meals together as a family when your kids are young. This way, it becomes a habit.
	•	Plan when you will eat together as a family. Write it on your calendar.
	•	You may not be able to eat together every day. Try to have family meals most days of the week.
Make family meals enjoyable
	•	Focus on the meal and each other. Turn off the television. Take phone calls later.
	•	Talk about fun and happy things. Try to make meals a stress-free time.			Cook together. Eat together. Talk together. Make mealtime a family time!
	•	Encourage your child to try foods. But, don’t lecture or force your child to eat.
	•	Involve your child in conversation. Ask questions like:
		○	What made you feel really happy today?
		○	What did you have to eat at lunch today?
		○	What’s your favorite veggie? Why?
		○	Tell me one thing you learned today.
		○	What made you laugh today?

	•	Have your child help you get ready to eat. Depending on age, your child may be able to:
		○	Help set the table
		○	Put pets, toys, or books in another room
		○	Turn off TV
		○	Pour milk (with help)
		○	Put down place mats
		○	Hand out napkins and silverware
		○	Pick flowers for table
		○	Clear the table
		○	Wipe the table

Ideas for fast family meals

More on Healthy Eating Habits:

• Set a Good Example
• Offer a Variety of Foods
• Start with Small Portions
• Help Them Know When They’ve Had Enough
• Follow a Meal and Snack Schedule
• Cope with a Picky Eater
• Help Them Try New Foods
• Make Food Fun

Last Modified: March 12, 2009 04:17 PM