![]() When it comes to supporting kids’ nutrition, like with all healthy habits, parents lead by example. Lattanzio also reminds us to “ avoid force feeding or restricting foods that we feel they’ve had ‘enough’ of or that we feel are ‘less-healthy’.” This supports mindful eating because it encourages kids to be attune with their bodies. “They’re also learning about serving sizes and how much food is appropriate for their own appetite.” “Allowing a child to serve themself is a great moment for a child to practice independence,” Roosevelt tells us. “Let your child be a scientist while eating and explore their meal or snack using all 5 senses-seeing, smelling, tasting, touching and hearing what they’re eating!”’ Yes, it’s sometimes OK for kids to play with their food. This is “to allow a person to connect with their bodily cues so they can gauge how much they've eaten and if they are feeling full.” “Regular mealtime should be a screen-free moment,” she says. Create a distraction-free environment.It’s up to us as caregivers to allow this to continue.” You’re probably wondering how parents can support mindful eating when sitting still isn’t typically a kid’s strong suit? Roosevelt has great suggestions here. They know when they’re hungry and when they’re full. Luckily, as Lattanzio tells us, “Babies are true mindful eaters. Mindful eating includes noticing what you’re consuming, as well as how your body feels while you’re eating. Mindfulness is an important part of developing and maintaining a healthy relationship with food- encouraging people to make choices that are both nourishing and satisfying. Eating together as a family, respecting their hunger and fullness cues, and building a balanced plate are all great first steps.” Encourage Mindful Eating She tells us, “ It’s easier to start early than to try to tackle it later. What about with babies? Registered Dietitian Nicole Lattanzio ( is an expert in infant nutrition. □ “Purple foods can help you have a strong brain and support heart health!” □ “Green foods are good for digestion, which is a fancy word for how your body gets energy from the foods you eat!” □ “Yellow foods contain a lot of vitamin A which helps your skin stay healthy.” ❤️ “Red foods help you have a strong heart.” “However, with practice, it can become a really great way to focus on the benefits of real, whole foods, and how they support our bodies to be healthy and strong.” Roosevelt has some wonderful, color-coded conversation starters: “This may feel unnatural,” says Megan Roosevelt ( Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Founder of Healthy Grocery Girl. When it comes to talking about nutrition with kids, start by incorporating food talk into everyday conversation, like when grocery shopping or making a snack together. Have no fear-we’re here to help you plant the seeds of healthy, mindful eating. Healthy food habits for kids-as with all healthy habits-are inspired, encouraged, and empowered by parents and caregivers willing to do the hard (and often messy) work. For any specific recommendations, please refer to your child’s pediatrician or healthcare providerĮvery parent wishes their kid was born a healthy eater, but that’s not always reality. Note: This blog is not medical advice and is for informational purposes only.
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