You’re working full time, educating and entertaining your children full time, and cooking 7 meals a day, because that’s just how things are now. Sound familiar? Let me tell you – I know it might be hard to believe right now, but you’re a Supermom, and you’re doing great!
Keeping up with the challenges of everyday life is tough, and mealtime can be extra challenging in some households. Check out these 3 Easy Steps from Dietitian, Dr. Maude Perreault, to keep yourself sane while keeping your kids (nutritionally) fed:
1. Stick to a Schedule
Kids thrive on routine. It’s comforting for them to know what to expect. Daycare and schools are champions at making kids follow a strict schedule, and without those outlets in your life right now, adopting a similar schedule at home can be really helpful. It also helps to keep track of time so you aren’t dealing with hangry kids on top of everything else. For most families, 3 meals and 2-3 snacks per day work best.
2. Take Charge of the Menu
As the caregiver, YOU are in charge of deciding what’s on the menu. Although it’s encouraged to be considerate of your kids' preferences, the responsibility of meal planning is yours. Serve balanced meals, and when your kids start whining about your selections, calmly assure them, "I hear you. Your favourite food isn’t on the menu today. If you aren’t interested in what’s being served, you don't have to eat it."
3. Focus on Quality, Not Quantity
Your job is to serve balanced meals at regular times throughout the day. Your child’s job is to determine the quantity of food he feels like eating at that meal. Sometimes kids are hungry, sometimes they aren’t. Our goal as caregivers is to provide our children with options and allow them to follow their appetite. Just remember that only they know how much their body needs.
Need more tips and tricks? Book an appointment with Maude today!
www.blueberrytherapy.ca/book-now