HEALTH DIARY – By Dr Lulu
Welcome to our weekly Health Diaries column, where we explore a range of health-related topics, breaking down common misconceptions and offering expert advice.
Feeding young children should be a joyful experience—but for many mothers, it becomes a daily struggle. Picky or stubborn eaters are common in both toddlers and preschoolers. When mealtimes feel more like battles than bonding moments, many mothers feel overwhelmed. Below are some practical strategies that can help:
Keep mealtimes calm and consistent
Children can often pick up on stress and tension, especially at mealtimes. Avoid pressure, threats, or forcing them to eat. Most children eat better when they are relaxed. Create a relaxed environment, switch off screens and focus on enjoying the meal together as a family.
Stick to a routine
Offer three meals and two to three healthy snacks at the same times every day. Predictable schedules can help children feel more secure and regulate their hunger and eating patterns.
Serve small portions
Begin with small servings and let your child ask for more. This prevents them from feeling overwhelmed and reduces pressure to finish everything on the plate. Also, lower-calorie children can feel capable and more in control.
Avoid force-feeding or bribes
Phrases such as “Finish your vegetables or I’ll take away your toy” can lead to food aversions and an unhealthy relationship with food. Instead, offer choices and focus on what to celebrate: how much the child tried or how well they listened.
Be a role model
Children are influenced by what they observe. If family members eat healthy meals, they are more likely to do the same. Family meals offer a great opportunity to set a positive example.
Involve children in food preparation
When kids are involved in cooking, shopping, or even plating their meals, they’re more likely to eat and enjoy what they helped prepare. This also increases their sense of independence and ownership.
Introduce new foods gradually
Children may need to see or taste a new food 10–15 times before accepting it. Keep offering new foods without pressure. Offer them alongside familiar and accepted options.
Celebrate small wins
Praise your child if trying a new bite or eating vegetables—even a small effort. Positive reinforcement helps build structure and trust around food.
👩⚕️ Dr Lulu contact:
📧 healthdiaries@yahoo.com
