Healthy eating habits are learned and developed over time. Children don't always naturally love to eat all of their vegetables. In fact, many children are very picky eaters. With the proper demonstration from their parents, children can learn to enjoy healthy eating habits.
Step 1
Sit down together for regular family meals at least five days per week. The Nemours Foundation states that eating regular meals together as a family can encourage a child to learn the healthy eating habits that the rest of his family follows. Kids who eat regular meals with their family generally eat more fruits and vegetables than those who don't. Make sure that what you serve at dinnertime is healthy, rather than sitting down to a fast-food meal together.
Step 2
Demonstrate your own healthy habits as a parent. Children look up to their parents and model their parents' behavior. If your child sees you throwing away your vegetables or skipping meals, they will be inclined to do the same. Eat snacks like fruits in front of your child and demonstrate that you love vegetables by eating vegetables in front of your child at dinner. Order healthy meals like soups, salads and sandwiches instead of choosing food from fast-food restaurants like fried chicken or burgers.
Step 3
Stock your kitchen with healthy foods that you want your child to eat. The Nemours Foundation states that children get used to eating whatever is available in the house. If your fridge is full of fruits and vegetables, your pantry is full of whole grains and there is not a sugary soda in sight in your house, your children will adapt and learn to eat with this healthy lifestyle.
Step 4
Ask your child to get involved in meal-planning and preparation. Reader's Digest magazine states that getting your kids involved in the grocery shopping and cooking makes them feel special and mentally connects them with the healthy food. This opportunity can also be used as a learning experience for your child to understand where healthy foods come from and why they are good for bodies both young and old.
Step 5
Explain to your children the difference between healthy foods and unhealthy foods by using the terms "sometimes food" and "anytime food." These terms take the negativity away from the concept of good and bad foods so that they do not feel bad when they have a treat, yet they are encouraged to eat sweets only in moderation. Explain that fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, beans, soy and lean meats are "anytime foods" because you can eat them every day. Candy, chips, soda, baked sweets, fast foods and cake are "sometimes foods" because it's OK to enjoy them once or twice a week, but not every day.
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