Hello there,
Have you ever heard the phrase "it takes a village"? Let's talk about that.
Whether you're a busy mom, aunt, grandma, or anyone who has influence in a child's life, everything that you do shapes their development. That includes their approach to health and well-being. A review published in the journal "Appetite" in 2023 highlights the influence of family and social factors on children's eating patterns, including the eating behaviors of the adults around them. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22089441/)
This means the healthy choices you make can set them on the path to a lifetime of well-being!
Here's How You Can Be a Positive Influence:
Lead by Example: Fill your plate with colorful fruits and veggies, choose whole grains and lean proteins. They're more likely to try new things if they see you enjoying them.
Make Meals a Fun Family Activity: Whenever possible, sit down together. This creates a positive association with healthy eating and promotes conversations about good nutrition.
Be Creative in the Kitchen: Involve them in age-appropriate meal preparation tasks. This fosters ownership and excitement around healthy meals.
Patience is Key: If they resist a new food, offer it again later. Focus on a positive and relaxed mealtime environment.
Remember, you play a vital role in shaping their healthy habits. By making healthy choices and prioritizing well-being, you're nurturing a foundation for a lifetime of health and happiness!
If you haven't already check out our newsletter on mindful eating, it has some wonderful tips for assisting with healthy eating habits. https://lkv.soundestlink.com/view/6650a4115e475a06c133bdff/0
LaJune believes in empowering families to lead healthy, active lives. Along with nutritional training, she also offers sports training and conditioning for girls. Contact us today for a free consultation.
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