National Nutrition Month: How to Teach Kids About Healthy Eating

March is National Nutrition Month! According to EatRight.org, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics created this campaign in 1973 to encourage people of all ages to learn about nutritional food options and make healthy eating choices. As we discussed last month, children who develop good habits early on are more likely to maintain those habits later in life — and that includes healthy eating. Here are some ways to introduce your child to nutrition and a balanced diet.

Set good examples with healthy eating

It’s not always easy, but developing healthy habits yourself can help kids keep up with theirs. As the New York Times reports, children are more likely to eat healthy if they see their parents doing the same. It’s important for you to maintain a positive relationship with food, showing your child that food equals nourishment.

On top of that, you should eat balanced meals and avoid fad diets. You don’t have to cut out every decadent or salty snack, but make sure to also consume a mix of fruits, veggies, grains, and protein.

 Reframe the way you introduce healthy foods

When offering new foods to your child, how you talk about them can make a big difference in how they receive them. As seen above, Kids Eat in Color has a wonderful poster with examples of how to talk about healthy foods.

Parents might feel compelled to tell white lies in order to get their kids to eat fruits and veggies (like carrots turning them into bunnies). In other cases, they might simply tell kids that something is good for them — but that often isn’t enough. Instead, try telling your child what the food does for their body, like giving them a strong heart or better vision in the dark.

Involve kids in meal prep and planning

Bringing your child along as you plan and prep healthy meals can make them feel more enthusiastic about it all. It can also ensure that they get a say in what they consume rather than simply eating what they’re told.

You might consider bringing your child on grocery runs and letting them choose a fruit or vegetable for dinner. Additionally, you can safely include them in the cooking process by giving them a simple task — just make sure to supervise! If you need ideas and tips for making a balanced meal, MyPlate is a great resource.

Talk to their pediatrician

When in doubt, it’s never a bad idea to discuss nutrition plans with your child’s doctor. They can help you uncover any dietary restrictions your child might need, such as gluten-free. If necessary, the pediatrician can recommend a dietitian or nutritionist who specializes in your child’s needs.

At Westminster Academy, we encourage students to have healthy snacks, such as fruit, nuts, granola bars, and protein bars. We have a variety of these options available every day. Please contact Angelyn Dodson at Westminster Academy with any questions.