Encouraging children to eat diverse and nutritious food sets themselves up for a lifetime of healthy eating habits. As any adult knows every child has individual likes and dislikes when it comes to eating food. For those children attending childcare there is opportunity for them to try healthy food in an environment different from home. Here are a few tips on a how to get children to eat food at childcare.
Be creative
Children are stimulated by colour and fun. So how can healthy food be presented so it’s both fun and colourful? That’s easy. Fruits and vegetables are naturally colourful.
They can be arranged in ways that appeal to young minds, like arranging fruit in a colourful bow, or serving veggies cut in strips ready to be dipped into yoghurt.
Or cut them into fun shapes and have each child create a shape on their plate by using fruit and veggies.
Play educational games
Share stories that involve food to make it more interesting to children. These could be farming stories educating children about where food comes from (before it arrives in the supermarket.)
Create smiley faces with the fruit and veggies, encouraging children to eat a piece from every part of the face as the story evolves.
Play a food guessing game. Place some veggies in a paper bag and in a group, have each child reach inside the bag, and try and guess what it is.
Arrange themed food tastings and introduce new foods.
Allow the children to take ownership
Where possible allow children to serve themselves at childcare to give them a sense of control and autonomy.
By creating positive food experiences, children will gain confidence to explore and try food they may not have tried before.
Help them develop a positive attitude to food
Always display enthusiasm and enjoyment when eating healthy foods to encourage children to try them, even if it’s only for that one time.
Demonstrate how the foods are good for us, by explaining what their health benefits are. And remember, if the child does not like the food, do not battle with them or use negative words.
According to research, a child’s social and cultural environment will shape their future eating behaviours.
By fostering a supportive environment, engaging in interactive activities, and promoting a diverse and balanced menu, educators and childcare providers can play a pivotal role in laying the foundation for healthy eating habits that will benefit children throughout their lives.