Most children will go through a phase at some stage during their toddler years where they have decided that they do not want to eat. This is very normal. However, to ensure that children still consume the best nutrients for them we have to get inventive. There are lots of things we do to combat this:
- Encouraging the children to participate in meal preparation
- Discussion with child about the food they will be eating
- The carers show great enthusiasm for the meals – children will often copy adults
- Disguise vegetables in food so children may not realise they are eating it
- Make a fuss when a child finishes their meal
- Make eating a sociably, fun and interactive experience
- By creating all our sauces, stews, casseroles, etc… we can puree or finely chop vegetables into these and the children do not realise
- The chef makes his own smoothies full of fresh fruit and vegetables
- We have pretend food in the rooms so that the children can discuss the foods they eat
When children see other children doing something they will often copy. Some children will eat more in a class room setting with their friends.