Children feel and learn better when they get the right nutrition.
It is important to develop healthy attitudes and practices toward food at an early age. At three-years-old, children are beginning to develop preferences toward types of food and eating habits. By creating a healthy meal environment, you can guide those preferences in positive directions. Encourage your child to try new things, but honor strong preferences. Turn off the television and eat together as a family. Make it an enjoyable, positive experience to encourage healthy associations with meals and food.
During the preschool years, your child should eat age-appropriate portions of the same foods as the rest of the family. Offer a wide range of foods and cuisines to encourage developing tastes. Limit processed and sugary foods. Teach table manners and create a calm, regular environment for meals.
More tips on healthy eating for preschoolers: