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My 5-year old only wants to eat junk food…
Does this statement ring a bell (regardless of the age)? Maurina sent in this question regarding her 5-year-old’s eating habits and how she can help her child eat less junk and maintain a healthy weight:
“My 5-year-old tends to only want to eat junk food such as cookies, chips and candy. I don’t buy any of the junk anymore, however, at her school and daycare she can still get away with eating that stuff. She’s over her suggested weight at her age, and I just can’t seem to get the pounds off her. What should I do?”
It’s hard enough to watch what our children and families eat at home, but once they walk out that door, the world is filled with all types of stuff – good and not so good. Is there a way to promote good eating while the kids are at school or playing with their friends? Absolutely! We may not be there all the time (they probably thank us for that!) but we can help them learn healthy habits that will stick for a long time!
I, too, have little ones so I know the challenges of trying to keep them on the right path, provide good nutrition and make sure they are staying active. Keep these things in mind and remember the most important thing – how much you care for her:
- Focus on the positive. We all know how negative reinforcement or comments stick at a young age.
- Be a role model. A lot of what we do as parents our children mimic.
- Pack those healthy lunches/snacks for school. This way, you know what they are eating (hopefully, they don’t trade too much!).
- Talk with the teachers or caregivers. I do this all the time and I am sure they love me for it (I like to believe that they do.). Seriously, let them know what you want her to have and make sure it’s done positively (not isolating her from other kids eating, etc. which is extremely important). A little something here and there is fine…but all the time might be too much.
- Cook or prepare food with her. I do this with my kids and focus on the healthy foods (subtly). It works!
- Keep cut up vegetables, fruits and bite-sized healthy foods around. Kids tend to eat more of those items if readily available and in small pieces.
Don’t stress. I know that’s easier said than done, but stay focused on the positive and keep moving (keeping active); an atmosphere of activity and healthy foods tend to create a positive environment.
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