Getting children to eat properly can be a challenge, especially when they are at daycare. As caregivers, it is important we provide nutritious meals and encourage healthy eating habits. Here are some tips that may help get children to finish their meals while in daycare:
Create a Relaxing Environment
Children are more likely to eat when they feel comfortable and relaxed. Make sure to set a calm, pleasant atmosphere during mealtimes with soft music or conversation. Rush and distraction often cause loss of appetite.
Involve Children in Meal Preparation
Let children help with simple tasks like setting the table or mixing ingredients. Involving them in the food process creates ownership and interest in eating it. You could talk about the colors and textures of different foods.
Be a Role Model
Lead by example – eat with the children and enjoy your own food. Seeing caregivers happily eating sets a good example that mealtimes are social and pleasant occasions.
Offer Choices and Options
Giving children some control over what’s on their plate, like choosing between fruits or vegetables, increases their willingness to try new foods. Simple choices empower them.
Don’t Force or Bribe
Forcing food or bribing with rewards teaches children to eat for the wrong reasons and not because they feel hungry. Gentle encouragement is better than force.
Try Different Textures and Flavors
Children are more likely to eat when foods have different tastes and mouth experiences. Mix crisp, soft, warm or cool items on their plate. Introducing one new food at a time also helps them adjust.
Be Patient and Keep Trying
It may take presenting a food multiple times, in different forms before a child accepts it. With time, patience and positive attitudes, picky eaters can learn to enjoy mealtimes. Consistency is important at daycare and home.
With some adaptation of their daycare environment and routines, caregivers can make mealtimes relaxed and encourage healthy eating. If challenges persist, speaking to parents may provide further insights into supporting nutrition. A team effort between home and daycare is often needed.
Getting children to eat enough of the healthy foods essential for their development, energy and brain function is a priority at daycare. With patience and the right strategies, caregivers can promote healthy habits from an early age.