Health and Nutrition (Contd.)

“Health and cheerfulness naturally beget each other.”  ~Joseph Addison

• Never use food as a reward

Reward in form of food could create weight problems in later life. It would be better to reward your children with something that involves physical activity and is also and fun for example a visit to the park or a quick game of badminton (CBSE Schools in Noida).

• Sit down to family dinners at night

If this isn’t a tradition in your home, make it one. Research shows that children who eat dinners at the table with their parents have better nutrition and are less likely to get in serious trouble as teenagers. Start with one night a week, and then work up to three or four, to gradually build the habit.

• Prepare plates in the kitchen

You can put the right portion of each item on everyone’s dinner plate, instead of offering up a food buffet or serve-yourself style. This way your children will learn to recognize healthy portion sizes. 

• Give the kids some control

Ask your children to take three bites of all the foods on their plate and give each one a grade, such as A, B, C, D, or F. When healthy foods — especially certain vegetables — get high marks, serve them more often. Offer the items your children don’t like less frequently. This lets your children participate in decision-making. After all, dining is a family affair.

• Consult your Paediatrician/Dietician

It is suggested to consult a Paediatrician/Dieticianbefore making any significant changes in the type of foods your child eats. Never diagnose your child as too heavy or too thin by yourself and your child’s doctor is the right person for such kind of recommendation.

If you guide your children in making smart food choices then you can protect them for a lifetime.