Help your child understand the importance of healthy eating.
Don't forbid snacks entirely. Snacks are actually a great way to squeeze in nutrients. The trick is to keep healthy snacks visible and accessible. Put your child's favorite yogurt, low-fat ice-cream or cut fruits in the fridge and whole-grain bread and crackers in the pantry. As long as he's eating healthily most of the time, giving him the occasional chip or cookie doesn't hurt either.
Don't rush your child through meals. Give her enough time to finish at her own pace.
Don't worry about day-to-day fluctuations. They're totally natural for children. As long as your child's growth is normal, don't push him to eat.
Don't serve big portions. Large amounts of food overwhelm little kids and may actually discourage them from eating.
Read food labels. When shopping for food products and snacks for your child, pay attention to the nutrition labels on the package. Look for hidden ingredients, such as added sugar, salt or trans fat.
Cut back on salt. When possible, don't add any when cooking to allow the natural flavors of food to come through. Lemon or lime juice, spices such as cinnamon add tasty flavor and are healthier alternatives to sodium for children one year old and older.
