Picky Eater Kids; End Your Mealtime Battle

In my seven years of being a mom, I have learned so many things about parenting and still being challenged by it. In those years, I had three beautiful children, each exudes different personality. Even though I had to deal with three unique individuals everyday, one thing is certain, they all came from one uterus and that means they have to follow whatever I say.

Before I had my eldest, I read so many articles about parenting, joined parenting forums, bought parenting magazines and even talked to friends who already have children. But guess what? A few of those only applied to my children. I guess the best teacher is still our experiences. 

The most difficult question of each parent I know is, how do we really get to make our children eat healthy food? But first,  let us ask ourself this question, do we eat healthily? If not, then let us not waste our time doing it because everything starts from us--parents.

So how do we end this mealtime drama?

• BE AN EXAMPLE. This is the most effortless way of doing it. If the kids feel like it is like a normal thing in the family, then they will do it without so much drama.

• CREATE A HABIT. We have to see tot it to at least serve them vegetable or fruits every meal and offer them fruits as snacks instead of processed food everyday. What the kids need is consistency in their everyday routine.

• EAT HAPPILY. Let's admit it, not all food looks pleasing to our palette. So no matter how the food looks like, it is best that you have positive outlook and be happy when you are eating. That way, the kids would be encouraged to eat more and eat heartily.

• BE CREATIVE. This is for those mommies who have extra time to make food in a fun way. We can create their favorite animals into their food so it would look enticing to them.

• INVOLVE THEM. This one is the most challenging yet effective fail-proof tip that I could share. I was able to make by picky eater eat banana by involving him in making banana ice candy last summer. They will have this sense of accomplishment in what they do thus making them eat what they prepared.

• REWARD/CHEAT DAY. This will serve as a reward for the kids to look forward to each time they finish their food. Also, giving them a little candy or few chips every two weeks will not hurt them too. This is just to let them know the different taste of each food too. You, as a parent should let them know that everything should be in moderation. But, I did this to my kids when they were already old enough to understand what are good and bad foods. 

• COMPLIMENT. This is the most important thing to do each time your kids finishes their food. This serves as the best motivation for them. 

I am sharing you these tips that worked with my three kids. You can tweak on these tips for as long as you like because as I have said, one might work for you and some won't. Our children is unique in every way so let us respect that. 

What is your mealtime story with your kids? Share them in the comment section below.