by Lori Lawless, Support Teacher

"She hardly eats a thing. I don’t know how she survives!" Sound familiar? Many a parent or teacher has said, or thought, something similar. Naturally, those of us who care for children, either our own or as teachers, are concerned with their nutritional intake. However, it is also natural for children between the ages of 2 and 5, to start to refuse some foods, become a picky eater, or appear to go on "binges" eating only a few self-selected foods. There are a few important things to remember about this stage of development:

* This is normal development– a time when children need to establish independence about eating and in so doing are learning about both making choices and testing the adult’s tolerance level.

* A preschooler’s growth rate is slower than that of an infant’s and therefore appetites may decrease – a preschool child may really not be hungry as he/she requires less calories at this stage.

* Most pediatricians will say that it is common for children at this age to not eat a balanced diet each and every day, but they typically do have a well balanced diet over a course of a week. Children’s parents may give a multivitamin if they think their child is not eating well enough. However, again, most pediatricians will say if a child is growing and maintains his/her energy level, there is little to worry about. If, at any time, however, concerns arise regarding a child’s growth and eating patterns, it is important to consult other adults in the child’s life (parent/teachers) and the child’s pediatrician.

Eating and toileting, are the two major areas that a preschooler can and will control. So how do parents and teachers best avoid getting into control battles around eating, especially eating nutritiously? Experts suggest:

* Be cognizant of how few calories preschoolers really need. Please refer to the food portion chart at the end of this article. Preschool "food pyramids" are also available through the internet (google– "preschool nutrition").

* Remember water. Children have more water in their bodies (as a % of body weight) than adults and their bodies can become more quickly dehydrated. Sometimes when we think we are hungry, we are actually thirsty.

* Make meal times pleasant, eating as a family whenever possible. At home, turn off the television and radio and let the answering machine pick up the phone. Keep mealtime conversation positive, avoiding comments on a child’s poor eating habits. Remember that it is also natural for children to be slow and messy at eating, and an adult’s patience is necessary. Additionally, provide good role models for children – they watch what we eat and how we enjoy it.

* Involve children. Children are more likely to try things they have helped make. Involve children in making the grocery list, finding the items at the market, and preparing the food. At home, have your child help pack his/her lunch/snack to bring to school. Ask your child direct questions that can give her/him some choice and control within a nutritious limit, e.g. "Do you want carrots or apples?"

* Make food fun. Offer bright colors (e.g. orange peppers, green pea pods), sandwiches cut into shapes, call it something different ("Buzz Lightyear’s magic flying stew), etc. There are a number of ideas included in parenting magazines and also on the internet (again, google "preschool nutrition"). Also, talk about food in exciting ways, "I love this green candy " (peas!).

* Serve snacks and meals on a dependable schedule, and in small portions. Include one preferred food and offer a small amount of others. Always start with small portions and allow a child to have additional helpings, if hungry. Offer a variety of healthy nutritious foods at meals and snacks to begin building a foundation for good nutrition. Remember that a child will usually not try a new food until after it is offered 10-15 times! Presenting new foods at the beginning of the meal when she/he is most hungry, may be helpful. Also, refrain from offering an abundance of juice or foods with few nutrients (e.g. chips, candy, cookies, etc) that will reduce hunger with little to no nutrition.

As adults we often equate food with comfort and may agonize over a preschooler’s sudden change in eating habits. Experts especially want us to remember that being a fussy, negative, picky eater, is a normal developmental stage and won’t last forever. As challenging as this time might be, recognizing the behavior as a developmental stage and respecting the child for it without added emotion or attention, will help move the child through the stage and finicky food habits disappear. In fact, the experts further advise, the best way to move through this developmental stage and prevent further feeding problems, is to avoid using food as a bribe or reward, punishing a child for not eating well, or forcing a child to eat. Remain calm, relaxed, and a good model of nutritious eating; this too shall pass!

National Network for Child Care: "Nutrition for the Preschool Child": Recommended portion sizes

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