At Toddler Town Daycare in Chicago and Evanston, IL parents have been entrusting us with the care of their preschoolers for years and we’ve learned a thing or two about their behavior — especially around lunchtime. Parents always ask us how we help their child develop a healthy relationship with food that doesn’t lead to them erupting in a fit when they can’t get the sugary cereal “ they neeeeeed” at the grocery store.
Well, lucky for you, Toddler Town is here to help. Here are four tips for helping your preschooler develop healthy eating habits. If you’re looking for quality preschool care in the Chicago area, schedule a tour with us today!
Let Them Try New Things
While chicken nuggets and PB&J are great staples to ensure your child is getting enough protein, always eating these things doesn’t cultivate food curiosity. The next time you go to the farmers market or grocery store, let your child pick out a new fruit or vegetable to try. This will give them agency over some of what they eat and make them more willing to try a new meal.
Cultivate a Healthy Relationship With Sweets
While too much sugar is definitely harmful, banning it altogether can also wreak havoc on your preschooler’s relationship with sweets down the road. Try pairing a treat with a piece of fruit and emphasize that treats are best enjoyed when they are rare.
Make Food Look Appealing
There’s a reason why Michelin-star chefs always take so much care and consideration when plating their food. As humans, we eat with our eyes first, and preschoolers are no exception.
Bring Your Preschooler Into the Kitchen
Help your preschooler understand what goes into the food they eat by bringing them into the kitchen while you cook or taking them to a community garden or local food market to gather fresh produce. The more multisensory you can make an experience, the more a preschooler will enjoy it.
No matter what your preschooler’s current eating habits are, these four tips can help them develop a healthier relationship with food. If you liked these tips, check out our blog for more ideas, and contact Toddler Town in Chicago for all your preschool childcare needs.
