Preschoolers are notoriously picky eaters, and it can make a parent wonder if they will ever get to teach them proper eating habits. This age is an important time to imprint healthy eating habits on children because they are open to exploring new things and can learn quickly. They can make choices now and develop habits that can last a lifetime. It is important to teach good nutritional habits to help their growing bodies, instill good habits and protect them from future disease and obesity.
Establish Early Patterns
Nutritional habits are important in the preschool years because this is when your child develops eating patterns that he will carry with him for the rest of his life. These formative years will determine how he approaches food and whether that approach is healthy. One way you can help your preschooler is to be a good role model for him, according to Kidshealth. A child in this age group is more likely to mimic what the adults around him do. If he sees you eating fresh fruits and vegetables, then he will want to eat them too.
Nutrients for Growth
Your preschooler's body is growing and developing during this time, and she needs all of the nutrients that come from healthy foods. Empty calories from soft drinks and fast foods will not meet her growing body's needs. According to Tammi Roberts, a dietitian at the University of Missouri Extension, there are four nutrients that are particularly important. Vitamin C is necessary for healing and to prevent bruising, and vitamin A is essential to the development of healthy vision. Calcium intake is important for strong bones and teeth, and iron deficiency can cause your child to experience fatigue or pale skin.
Avoid Diseases
Many diseases have their roots in poor nutrition, such as heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. Eating a diet that is high in dietary fiber, low in trans fats and low in concentrated sugars will help your child to avoid these conditions in his future. High-sugar foods such as candy and soda are also bad for your teeth, so cutting down on these treats will help your child's oral hygiene as well. Nutrient-dense foods decrease the risk for chronic disease, according to the Weight-Control Information Network.
Maintain Healthy Weight
Good nutritional habits will help your preschooler understand how to control his weight in a sensible way. Instead of fad diets or expecting miracles from a pill, early instruction in the basics of nutrition at the preschool age will help him know how to control his weight. Do not tell a child he needs to go on a diet or discuss your own attempts to control your weight in front of him, according to the National Consumers League. Focus on making healthy choices together with your child and explain why vegetables are a better choice than candy. Use it as a talking point rather than a point of argument. Help your preschooler choose healthy foods and he will have a better chance of controlling his weight for life.
References
- Kidshealth; How Can Families Be Healthier?; Mary L. Gavin, M.D.; June 2011
- University of Missouri Extension; Healthy Habits for Your Preschool Aged Child; Tammy Roberts, MS, RD, LD; May 2009
- Weight-control Information Network; Helping Your Child: Tips for Parents; January 2007
- National Consumers League; Food
