Flavour speaks louder than words
When adults talk to their preschool kids about the ‘taste’ rather than ‘goodness’ of certain foods (or just don’t say anything at all and let the food speak for itself), kids are more likely to eat certain foods.
In a study on preschoolers, researchers used a story to convey messages about certain foods. In one story the health benefits, or ‘goodness’ of the foods were emphasised, e.g. “this will make you strong and healthy”. In the other story, the foods were referred to as ‘yummy’ only.
The foods were then presented on a table for kids to eat if they chose. The ‘yummy’ story resulted in more kids choosing to eat the foods.
It’s the flavour and experience that makes certain foods more desirable, rather than the ‘good for you’ words.
Why not try it out when presenting your kids with their valuable vegetables.
How to get kids to drink more water
We’re so lucky to have access to clean, healthy water. But with so many other choices available it can sometimes be a challenge to get your child to drink enough. Here are a few ideas to make water fun and delicious:
- Add flavour – a squeeze of lemon, a sprigg of mint or a few orange slices
- Add fresh fruit ice cubes made with raspberries and strawberries
- Keep a jug of water chilled in the fridge for hot days
- Use special cups
- Offer colourful straws
- Show them how much YOU enjoy drinking water
Your Child Care Service will support you to continue breastfeeding
Many Child Care Services and Preschools support breast feeding mums and can provide a quiet, comfortable and hygienic place for mums to breast feed or express milk.
Be sure to let your child care service know your preference to breast feed and ask for their support.
Managing screen time
- Allow time to be active with your child and be an active role model – monitor your own small-screen time and physical activity and lead by example.
- Avoid eating in front of the TV. Eating at the table can help encourage conversation on all sorts of interesting topics.
- Switch the TV off if no one is watching it and use music for ‘background noise’.
- Be selective about what your child watches – most children will happily sit and watch whatever is on the screen for hours on end. Allocate a set time or program.
Australian guidelines for preschool children ages 2-5 = no more than one hour a day. Children under 2 = none at all. Screen time includes TV, computers, IPADs, mobile phones etc.
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