Role modelling healthy behaviours
- Children copy what they see! When parents eat nutritious foods, kids are likely to copy
- Model enjoying core foods and balanced meals
- Stay positive about foods
Mealtime habits
- Have regular, consistent meal times
- Aim for family meals with no TV, phones or other distractions
- Encourage mindful eating recognising hunger and fullness cues
Shopping & meal prep
- Plan ahead with healthy snacks
- Prepare and portion snacks in advance
- Keep nutritious foods ready to grab
- Involve children in food shopping and food choices
Make food fun!
- Get creative with food preparation and involve children
- Cut food into fun shapes and arrange so it is visually appealing
- Create build-your-own stations
- Offer various flavours and textures
Healthy communication
- Talk about food in a positive, neutral way
- Avoid calling foods “good” or “bad”
- Focus on how food helps the body feel strong and energetic
- Encourage children to express their likes and dislikes
- Encourage involvement of kids in choosing foods to help build healthy relationships with food
