Talking to Children About Healthy Eating

An important part of the curriculum at Paisley Park Early Learning Centres is talking to children about healthy eating and food.

The foods we fuel our bodies with have a big influence on both our physical and mental health. Helping children establish healthy eating habits early in life can have a big impact on their wellbeing throughout their lives.

The Importance of Language

Something we often talk to the children about is the difference between ‘healthy’ foods and ‘sometimes’ foods.

The choice of the term ‘sometimes foods’ is intentional, with the aim of helping children to not view unhealthier options as ‘bad’ or ‘naughty’. Using those kinds of words has the potential to lead to issues in a person’s relationship to food later in life and is best avoided.

Like many things in life, moderation is key when it comes to foods that are high in sugar and/or saturated fats. Eating these kinds of foods in small amounts is not a problem and can be enjoyed as part of an overall healthy lifestyle.

Food and Celebration

Throughout history and in every culture, humans have used food as a key part of rituals and celebration. These shared rituals present a wonderful opportunity to talk to children about the importance of food. It also helps to make food and eating fun!

Practice Making Choices

Including children in decisions around meals and food choices (where practical) can help them to develop a healthy approach to eating.

If your child is a ‘fussy’ eater, try to be patient. Encourage them to try new things but avoid putting pressure on them to eat more than they want to.

Look After Yourself

Young children often learn from watching and imitating the adults in their lives. When children see the most important adults in their lives making good choices, it helps them develop their own healthy eating habits.

Further Reading for Talking to Children About Healthy Eating

Raising Children: https://raisingchildren.net.au/toddlers/nutrition-fitness/healthy-eating-habits/healthy-eating-habits

Health Direct: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/healthy-eating-for-children

We hope these tips will help you to support your child in making healthy food choices…