As your child gets older, they'll start to develop eating habits. Introducing them to nutritious foods at a young age can instill in them the importance of making smart dietary choices that support a healthy lifestyle now and throughout their lifetime. Here's how to encourage your child to eat nutritiously.

How to Help Your Child Understand Healthy Eating

1. Set an Example

Kids model their behavior after their parents. When you make it a priority to eat healthy foods, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats—and omit items like potato chips and cookies—your child is likely to follow suit. 

However, you don’t have to restrict foods entirely, as this can lead children to think they should never eat them. Teaching your child moderation will help them recognize that a healthy lifestyle involves balance in which they should allow themselves to indulge every once in a while.

2. Encourage Slow Eating

Eating too fast can cause kids to consume more than necessary, leaving them too full and generally uncomfortable. Faster eating essentially tricks the body into eating more, a habit that can be hard to break later in life. 

Teach your child the importance of focusing on chewing each bite carefully and appreciating the taste and texture of the food. This will help them gain a greater appreciation for different ingredients and avoid overeating. 

3. Eat Meals Together

When kids eat alone or feel like meals need to be rushed, they’re less likely to make nutritious choices and may associate eating with negative emotions. While it’s sometimes difficult for everyone to sit and enjoy dinner together, focus on eating meals with one another as much as you can. 

This not only fosters togetherness, but it also encourages relaxed and healthy eating. When you eat as a family, you can engage in conversation to keep your child from eating too quickly and monitor what they're consuming to ensure they get a nutritious meal.

If you want your child to develop a healthy lifestyle that includes the proper nutrition, Abbey Walsh Nutrition in Butler, PA, can help. I help parents throughout the country instill proper eating habits in their children that will last a lifetime. From making the right dietary choices to dealing with concerns like food sensitivities, I can help you through the process of achieving the health goals of you and your children. Visit my website to schedule a 15-minute discovery call.