Most would agree that although quite rewarding, parenting is a very challenging job. It is a role that requires hard work, tolerance, effort, and, most of all, endless patience. While watching our little ones grow into their own individuals is a true blessing, deep down, we worry whether or not we are doing a good job as parents. This is especially true when it comes to teaching our children how to develop a healthier relationship with food.
In an era ruled by social media, Matthew Teeple believes that there are so many mixed messages out there regarding food and dieting that it can be difficult to know how to set a good example for our kids. On the one hand, we want them to eat healthily and enjoy all the wonderful benefits that come with having a nutritious diet. But on the other hand, we don’t want them to grow up with any sort of disordered eating habits. So, where do we draw the line? How can we make sure we are raising happy and healthy eaters?
Matthew Teeple’s Tips To Help Children Develop Healthy Eating Habits
1) Teach your children about the importance of a balanced diet.
One of the best things you can do as a parent is to teach your children about the importance of a balanced diet. This means that their bodies need a variety of different foods in order to function properly. Explain to them that all food groups are important and that they should aim to eat a little bit of everything each day. Try to make mealtimes fun and relaxing rather than a time for stress or anxiety.
2) Encourage your children to eat mindfully.
Teach your children the art of intuitive eating – the habit of only consuming food when they feel hungry and stopping when they feel full. This can be a difficult concept for children to grasp, but it’s so important. Help them to understand that their bodies know best and that they should listen to their hunger cues. Encourage them to eat slowly and savor each bite. Explain that this will help them to enjoy their food more and to avoid overeating.
3) Model healthy eating habits yourself.
As the old saying goes, actions speak louder than words. Matthew Teeple points out that if you want your children to develop healthy eating habits, then you need to model those habits yourself. Eat a variety of nutritious foods in front of your kids and let them see how much joy food can bring. Avoid talking negatively about your own body or dieting in front of them. And most importantly, don’t punish yourself with food – this will only teach them that food is something to be afraid of.
4) Avoid using food as a reward or punishment.
Bribing your children with food is a surefire way to develop unhealthy eating habits in them. Likewise, punishing them by withholding food is also not helpful. If you want your children to have a healthy relationship with food, then you need to stop using it as a tool for manipulation. Instead, focus on providing them with nutritious meals and snacks that they can enjoy without guilt or judgment.
5) Don’t make comments about their weight or appearance.
Comments about a child’s weight or appearance can be very damaging and can lead to a lifetime of body image issues. If you want your children to have a healthy relationship with food, then you need to avoid making any comments about their weight or the way they look. Instead, focus on praising them for their other qualities and accomplishments.
Bottom Line
Matthew Teeple understands that parenting is hard work, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these simple tips, you can help your children to develop a healthy relationship with food that will last a lifetime.
