By Lori Hayungs, Laura Sternweis
AMES, Iowa – Many parents worry about what their children eat — and don’t eat. However, when parents and children engage in mealtime battles, nobody wins. Instead, parents should focus on preventing power struggles over food, say the Science of Parenting bloggers from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.
“Most kids get plenty of variety and nutrition in their diet, even if they don’t want to eat particular foods,” said Lori Hayungs, a human sciences specialist in family life.
“But if you’re concerned about your child’s eating habits, talk to your health care provider who can help you review your child’s growth. Start a ‘food log’ and keep track of the types and amounts of food your child eats and share that information with your healthcare provider as well,” Hayungs said.
In June, Hayungs and other human sciences specialists will be blogging about how to make mealtime fun rather than a power struggle. They’ll talk about establishing healthy food routines and giving kids opportunities to make their own food choices. They’ll also discuss the importance of modeling healthy eating behaviors and strategies for removing distractions like television and electronic gadgets during mealtime.
“Your child’s eating habits won’t change overnight, but the small steps you take each day can help promote a lifetime of healthy eating,” Hayungs said.
Learn more from tips on the blog throughout the month and in a short podcast. Through the Science of Parenting, www.scienceofparenting.org, ISU Extension and Outreach specialists share and discuss research-based information and resources to help parents rear their children. Parents can join in the conversation and share thoughts and experiences, as well as how they handle parenting responsibilities.
The Science of Parenting from ISU Extension and Outreach also is available on Twitter and via text message.
