When a child learns healthy nutrition habits, she develops a sound relationship with food. Children have nutritional needs and diet obstacles to overcome just as adults do. Incorporating techniques for whole family nutrition and planning healthful meals assists in building nutritional awareness in children and a lifelong foundation for healthy living.
Obesity
Childhood obesity has been rising steadily for nearly a half-century. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention statistics show that from 1963 to 2004, the prevalence of obesity among children ages 6 to 11 increased 14.6 percent, according to "Obesity Trends in Children" by Lucille Beseler, a registered licensed dietitian writing for Superkidsnutrition.com. Parents can improve their child's overall health and prevent obesity by integrating healthy food choices and practicing consistency.
Age
Nutritional needs vary for children depending on age. According to Kidshealth.org, 1- to 2-year-old children should be offered three meals a day and two or three snacks a day like older children, but toddlers may want to skip meals sometimes and should be allowed to respond to their own hunger naturally. Very young children also have restrictions on the types of foods they can eat to avoid choking hazards, while older children have more food choices available.
Diet
MyPyramid.gov provides information on the most current nutrition guidelines for children. Grains make up the largest part of the food pyramid, and half of children's daily grain intake should be whole grains. Vegetables comprise another large portion, and MyPyramid.gov recommends eating more dark green and orange vegetables. Fruit also is recommended in fresh, frozen, canned or dried form, although fruit juices should be limited. Milk has a section of its own with low-fat and non-fat varieties being the best. The smallest part of the food pyramid consists of meats and beans, comprised of low-fat choices and low-fat preparation methods, such as broiling, baking or grilling.
Routine
Children benefit from structure because it helps them feel secure. Setting up a routine for family meals and snacks reduces unhealthy food choices and puts children at a nutritional advantage. It also reduces power struggles over food if it becomes expected at the same time each day. Family meals bring families together to talk and build bonds, and they are one part of incorporating a nutritional routine. A meal and snack schedule that includes food tailored to a child's age and specific needs is recommended by MyPyramid.gov and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Role Modeling
According to "Be a Healthy Role Model for Children: 10 Tips for Setting Good Examples" at MyPyramid.gov, parents are the most important influence on a child. Grocery shopping together, trying new foods as a family and avoiding power struggles over food can leave a lasting impression on a child's nutritional outlook.
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