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How to Raise Healthy Eaters: A Journey from High Chair to High School

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Fearless Feeding: How to Raise Healthy Eaters From High Chair to High School

by Maryann Jacobsen

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Raising healthy eaters is a journey that begins in infancy and continues through adolescence. By providing children with the right nutrition and education, we can help them develop lifelong healthy eating habits.

This article will provide you with practical tips and expert advice on how to raise healthy eaters, from the high chair to high school.

Infancy (0-12 months)

Breastfeeding is best

Breast milk is the ideal food for infants. It is packed with nutrients that are essential for growth and development, and it also provides protection against infection.

If you are unable to breastfeed, formula is an acceptable alternative. However, it is important to choose a formula that is tailored to the specific needs of infants.

Introducing solids

Around 6 months of age, you can begin introducing your baby to solid foods. Start with single-ingredient foods, such as pureed fruits and vegetables. As your baby gets older, you can gradually add more variety to their diet.

It is important to be patient and encouraging as your baby learns to eat solid foods. Don't force your baby to eat anything they don't want, and don't be discouraged if they spit out or refuse certain foods.

Toddlerhood (1-3 years)

Establish regular mealtimes

As your toddler grows, it is important to establish regular mealtimes. This will help them to get used to eating at regular intervals and will also help to prevent them from overeating or undereating.

Offer a variety of foods

Continue to offer your toddler a variety of healthy foods from all food groups. This includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy products.

Avoid offering your toddler sugary drinks or processed foods. These foods are high in calories and low in nutrients, and they can contribute to weight gain and other health problems.

Involve your toddler in meal preparation

Involve your toddler in meal preparation as much as possible. This will help them to learn about different foods and how they are prepared.

Let your toddler help you wash fruits and vegetables, set the table, or stir ingredients. Even simple tasks can help them to feel involved and invested in the meal.

Preschool (3-5 years)

Make mealtimes fun

Make mealtimes fun for your preschooler. Let them help you choose recipes, set the table, and decorate the food.

You can also play games with your preschooler during mealtimes. For example, you can try to see who can eat the most vegetables or who can make the funniest face with their food.

Be a role model

Be a role model for your preschooler by eating healthy foods yourself. Children learn by watching the adults in their lives, so it is important to show them that you value healthy eating.

Eat fruits and vegetables with your preschooler, and talk about the importance of making healthy choices.

Elementary school (6-12 years)

Encourage your child to pack their own lunch

As your child gets older, encourage them to pack their own lunch. This will give them more control over what they eat and will also help them to learn about healthy eating.

Help your child choose healthy lunch options, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Avoid packing sugary drinks or processed foods.

Talk to your child about nutrition

Talk to your child about nutrition in a way that they can understand. Explain the importance of eating a healthy diet and answer any questions that they have.

You can also use books, games, and websites to teach your child about healthy eating.

High school (13-18 years)

Respect your teenager's independence

As your teenager gets older, they will become more independent. This includes making their own food choices.

Respect your teenager's independence, but continue to offer guidance and support. Talk to them about healthy eating and answer any questions that they have.